ESPNHS Football

Throughout this offseason, we’ve spotlighted Class of 2013 quarterbacks who have a shot at making the Elite 11 finals in July. This week, we profile Staley (Kansas City, Mo.) junior Trent Hosick, who will compete in the Las Vegas Elite 11 regional on June 16.

Since transferring from Ozark (Mo.) after his freshman year, Trent Hosick has adjusted nicely at Staley (Kansas City, Mo.). After sitting out a year, he excelled in his first season under center this past year, maintained a high GPA and even made waves on YouTube by creating a video on how to "Heisman" with teammate Morgan Steward. But there is one thing the junior quarterback has not grown accustomed to since becoming a Falcon — losing.

In the fall, Hosick totaled 2,403 yards and 31 touchdowns on the ground while throwing for 1,422 yards and 10 touchdowns to lead Staley to a 14-0 record and the Class 5 championship, a first for the football program. Then in the winter, the 225-pound Hosick went 29-0 en route to the Class 3 heavyweight wrestling title, besting competitors who were sometimes 70 pounds bigger than him.

With his past success driving his thirst for more, Hosick will join some of the nation's top gunslingers for the final Elite 11 regional on June 16 in Las Vegas. Rated the nation's No. 23 pocket passer by ESPN, Hosick took time out to talk about his victorious junior campaign, commitment to Missouri and intense competitive drive.

ESPNHS: After going undefeated and winning a state title in football, what was it like doing the same thing in wrestling?
Hosick: I've been wrestling for 13 years and since I'm graduating early next year, I won't be around to wrestle as a senior, so what's not to love about what happened? It was a great conclusion to my wrestling career and made me even more competitive. It's definitely made me a better football player, too. It's taught me discipline and helped take my training to another level because no one works harder than wrestlers. That's the hardest type of training there is. I think what gives me an edge is the way I train, so there's no doubt that wrestling has helped me out in football, too.

ESPNHS: How hard was it wrestling guys who were sometimes 70 pounds bigger than you?
Hosick: I tried to put weight on during the season, but it's hard when you're wrestling because you have four-hour practices almost every day. I ended up wrestling state at 218 and most of the year I was weighing 212.

ESPNHS: After leading a run-first offense last season, what are you looking to show at the Elite 11 regional next month?
Hosick: At this point, I'm already committed to Missouri, so I'm not into impressing recruiters. Number one, I love competition, so winning is very important to me. What I hope to show at the camp is that I am one of the best throwing quarterbacks in the country. I have confidence in that. Our offense doesn't always showcase that, and that's fine because we won a state title, which is most important. But whatever doubts people had about me throwing, I plan on changing them and making them say "Wow, this kid is a great thrower."

ESPNHS: What would it mean to get an invitation to the Elite 11?
Hosick: I'd of course be really excited to be a part of the Elite 11, but at the same time I feel like I belong. There will be a lot of phenomenal players out there and I feel confident that I can throw with the best guys in the country. I'd be honored if the coaches thought that as well and invited me to the competition.

ESPNHS: What made you commit to Missouri as a junior?
Hosick: The number one thing to me in looking for a school was finding a place where the coaching staff, particularly the coach I would spend the most time around, were people I could consider a friend and who were winners. That's the type of relationship I have with [Staley] coach [Fred] Bouchard now. I don't want it to be a serious business relationship. I really love [Missouri assistant] coach [David] Yost and that's the biggest thing I found at Missouri, guys I can go to work with and consider family. The other thing was I wanted to go to a place where they were good but not quite national champions like Alabama or LSU. I wanted to be at a school that was just on the cusp of becoming the best team in the country and I want to be that piece that helps put them over the top. Plus, the guys they are bringing in and the move to the SEC make it even better. If I had waited eight more months, I still would've made the same decision to go to Missouri.

ESPNHS: One of those guys coming in next season is Dorial Green-Beckham. What would it be like to potentially be throwing to a player like him?
Hosick: It's very exciting. Dorial is an extremely rare high school football player and is going to be a great college player. At the same time, he will be a teammate and I hope he's willing to go to work because we have work to do as a team. I think we can do something special together. I know Dorial a little bit and I'm also very excited to play with Morgan Steward again, who is one of my best friends.

ESPNHS: What have you been working on in anticipation for your senior year and the next level?
Hosick: I watch my own video and critique myself and there are a few things I'm changing about my game. I'm working on my timing and trying to grow in making my reads quicker. I want to look off safeties better and be able to zip the ball in there. I'm also working on my "two throw," which is when you throw over the linebacker and in front of the safeties. My pocket presence is another thing, where I don't feel like I have to rush too soon. I can make plays with my feet if I need to, but the area I need to grow in most is taking a step up in the pocket and throwing with confidence even if there's a guy coming for me.

ESPNHS: With all the winning you've done, how much more pressure does that create for you to succeed as a senior?
Hosick: It does raise the bar and we have a very high standard for our team this coming year. I was a little worried at first about coming out again after such a wonderful season and having that same passion. But it didn't take long for it to come back and for me to start getting excited again. And we're going to do it again. Our first game is against Lee's Summit West and I'm confident we can push our team as hard as we can and win the championship again.

ESPNHS: At this point, do you even remember what it's like to lose in sports?
Hosick: I remember it enough not to want to do it again [laughs]. I don't like losing. It's the same thing that pushes me in academics, too. If I get a B, there's an A to be had in the class and if I got a B, then I know someone did better than me. I don't know why the Lord made me this way, but I just don't like losing in anything. And I won't do anything unless I know I will win at it. A lot of my friends like to challenge me in HORSE because they know I'm a cruddy shooter. So even though I like shooting hoops, I won't do it sometimes because I don't like losing. It sounds crazy, I know. But that's just the way I am.

Trent Hosick
School: Staley (Kansas City, Mo.)
Position: QB
Class: 2013
2011 Team Record: 14-0 (Class 5 state champ; No. 1 in Missouri POWERADE state rankings)

2011 Stats
Passing Yards: 2,403
TDs: 31
Rushing Yards: 1,422
TDs: 10

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

During the offseason, we’ll check out one team per week that looks like a sure bet to be among the best in the nation this fall.

FAB 50 Offseason Primer archive

This week’s team: John Curtis Christian (River Ridge, La.)

2011 Season: 14-0, Class 2A state champion, No. 28 in the final POWERADE FAB 50.

Projected 2012 Preseason Ranking: Top 20. It was a historic season for the Patriots last fall, not so much for their 24th state title but when coach J.T. Curtis -- who has been leading the football program at the school named for his father since 1969 -- won his 500th game. Curtis became just the second coach in U.S. history to achieve that many wins and ended the season at 506-54-6. The only coach with more wins is 85-year-old John McKissick, who's still coaching at Summerville (S.C.). The numbers should continue to accumulate in 2012 and the national ranking could be much higher as well. Almost all of the top players from last year will be back. And if the Patriots get past probable FAB 50 preseason ranked Byrnes (Duncan, S.C.) at the Allstate Sugar Bowl Prep Classic in September, they could be pushing for the top 10 or higher.

Team Strengths: Breakaway speed on offense and an outstanding linebacker-secondary corps on defense gives the Patriots much to build on. Offensively, junior running back Sherman Badie earned Class 2A all-state honors after rushing for 1,239 yards and 19 touchdowns on only 87 carries (14.2 yards per carry). Sophomore Raekwon James scored a pair of touchdowns in the 33-3 win over Winnfield (La.) in the state championship and ran for 761 yards and 11 scores on the season. And junior Tevin Horton rushed for 765 yards and 12 scores. Quarterback Abby Touzet is just a freshman, and although the Patriots are a team that doesn’t throw much, he did gain valuable experience. Another plus on offense will be the return of lineman Anthony Taylor (6-7, 330), who is yet another of the team’s major college prospects. Defensively, Class 2A Player of the Year Duke Riley will lead the returnees. The linebacker is perhaps John Curtis Christian’s best overall player. Junior Richard Allen will lead the secondary.

Another Louisiana team to watch: Karr (New Orleans) motored to an 11-4 season in 2011 and made it to the Class 4A state final, where it lost to Neville (Monroe, La.) 27-6. It was a Cinderella ride that should be followed up by a season of higher expectations since so many top players for the Cougars were underclassmen. Sophomore quarterback Devante Noil passed for 1,654 yards and 26 touchdowns and rushed for 772 yards and eight scores. Also returning will be tight end Standish Dobard, a Miami commit rated No. 131 in the ESPN 150, and Noel Ellis, who’s rated the nation’s No. 17 cornerback by ESPN. The defensive line for Karr should be tough as well due to the expected return of junior Titus Charles and standout sophomore Gerald Willis.

Tramel Terry didn't really know what to expect entering the Charlotte Nike Football Training Camp. After pulling his groin in the state championship game last fall and running track for part of the spring, the Goose Creek (S.C.) junior still wasn't close to 100 percent. Heck, he hadn't even run full speed in weeks.

But despite the uncertainty, Terry would settle for nothing less than an invite to The Opening while at the NFTC. He made good on his personal vow, using impressive route running and several acrobatic catches to secure a spot at the prestigious event set to take place July 5-8 in Oregon.

Adjusting to circumstances is nothing for Terry, who is ranked No. 47 in the ESPN 150. The Georgia recruit played three positions last fall, totaling 1,680 yards and 16 touchdowns as a wide receiver and running back and shining at defensive back in leading the Gators to the Division II-AAAA state championship.

Terry took some time to talk about The Opening, his commitment to Georgia and his favorite position.

ESPNHS: How did you feel about your performance at the Charlotte NFTC?
Terry: I was injured but still out there competing, expecting the best. Every Saturday, I prepared for the camp like it was a game. I would go to the weight room and work on this little machine that works your hips to stay loose. My groin didn't bother me once I got going, so I was able to work with it. At the end, I wasn't sure if I had done good enough to make it to The Opening, but I was real excited and happy when I got the invite.

ESPNHS: How did you hurt your groin?
Terry: I actually hurt it in the state title game. I wasn't resting so it had become a chronic problem and I had to stop running track. I've tried resting some but I committed to going to the NFTC, so I had to prepare for that. Now that I'm done, I'm going to rest up before going to Florida in June to train with Donovin Darius, who used to play for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

ESPNHS: What are your expectations going into The Opening?
Terry: I just want to represent my school, Georgia and my class. It's cool to be seen as one of the best players out there, but I know everybody will be good out there, so I'm just going to learn and do my best. I'm not going to press to be somebody I'm not; I'm just going to play my game.

ESPNHS: What was it like winning a state championship last fall?
Terry: It was crazy. We really should have more than one ring, in my mind. The year before, we lost by five yards [in the semifinals] because we threw a Hail Mary at the end and I caught it just short at the 5-yard line. But it was a tough fight in the state championship and it was great to get the win. Now we're looking to do the same thing next year. The leadership of me and the other seniors will be important because we want to make sure the young guys don't come in and think they don't have to work for another title since we just won one. Hopefully everybody will be humble and work hard.

ESPNHS: Which position did you initially play and how did you end up playing three at Goose Creek?
Terry: My first position was wide receiver, but I didn't play much as a freshman until they started throwing bombs and they saw I could catch them. As a sophomore, they taught me the Wildcat offense, so I started playing running back, too. And then my junior year, I played defensive back along with the other two. Next year, I'm going to start at safety and wide receiver and running back, so I've got to train hard to make some plays out there.

ESPNHS: Which position do you like best?
Terry: I can't lie; I'd have to say running back right now because we play in a running offense and I want the ball so I can make something happen. In our offense, it's a quick way to get the ball. But at the next level, I think I'd be a good defensive back in college. Next season, I'll be working on my transition some to being on the defensive side, but really, it's wherever Georgia wants me to play.

ESPNHS: You committed to and then decommitted from Georgia before committing again in March. What went into your decision?
Terry: I'm happy with it and know I did the right thing. In some ways, Georgia was kind of like Clemson but more of a modern campus. All the guys were real cool, like to have fun and do things I like to do, like fishing. There wasn't any hating from the players because you know sometimes players don't like recruits because they think they are coming to take their spots. But everybody welcomes you in and makes you feel like part of the squad. I love it down there.

ESPNHS: What have the Georgia coaches told you about how they want to use you out on the field?
Terry: They said they are looking at me to probably be like Malcolm Mitchell, where I play offense first and then transition to be a defensive back in the next year or two. The good thing is that I'll be graduating early and enrolling in the spring, so I'll get a head start and be physically ready when the season comes.

ESPNHS: In the meantime, how do you plan to build on the success from this past fall at three different positions, especially with more defenses targeting you?
Terry: Well, I'm not the only guy on the team. I just happen to be the most well-known senior, but we've got so many other weapons. They better not just worry about me. I'm still going to do my thing and produce, though, and make plays.

TRAMEL TERRY
School: Goose Creek (S.C.)
Class: 2013
Position: Wide receiver/running back/defensive back
HT: 5-11
WT: 193
College: Georgia

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

Throughout this offseason, we’ve spotlighted Class of 2013 quarterbacks who have a shot at making the Elite 11 finals in July. This week, we profile Santa Margarita (Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.) junior Johnny Stanton, who will compete in the Oakland Elite 11 regional on Friday.

Johnny Stanton isn’t afraid of the big moment.

With his team trailing 37-36 in the CIF Division I State Championship Bowl Game, the Santa Margarita (Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.) junior quarterback led the Eagles on a dramatic fourth-quarter drive capped by his one-yard plunge on fourth down with 16 seconds left to give the Eagles a 42-36 win.

Stanton completed 14-of-25 passes in the game for 306 yards and four touchdowns and ran for another touchdown in addition to his game-winner. He finished the year passing for 2,439 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushing for 1,528 yards and 25 scores.

Now, Stanton is ready for another big moment. Friday night he’ll be competing in the Oakland Elite 11 regional, with the MVP earning a ticket to the Elite 11 finals in July. The 6-foot-2, 220-pounder has drawn comparisons to Tim Tebow because of his size and his dual-threat abilities — Stanton is rated the nation’s No. 14 dual-threat QB by ESPN.

But Stanton knows running the ball isn’t going to get him to the Elite 11 finals. He’s been working all offseason on improving his passing mechanics so he can seize the moment on Friday night.

ESPNHS: What were you thinking when your coach decided to go for the touchdown in the state championship?
Stanton: I was excited for him to go for it. We had the bigger guys up front and I think we had the stronger guys. It felt so close yet so far. There was a lot of pressure. After I scored the touchdown, I just started running down the sideline with my finger in the air. It was an incredible experience. I don’t think it hit me until a couple days later. It was definitely a storybook ending for us.

ESPNHS: How were you able to stay so composed during the winning drive?
Stanton: We just knew our whole season depended on this. I think all of us dreamt of that and knew what to do in that moment. That really helped us keep our composure. It was a product of a year’s worth of practice, weightlifting and watching film.

ESPNHS: How has your team kept from staying complacent this offseason?
Stanton: Coach (Harry) Welch has been really helping with that. Any time he thinks we’re getting content, he might lecture us. A couple of times, he’s shown us film of Brophy Prep (Phoenix), our first game of the season, so we can see what we have to be ready for. We all know we can have a much better year than we had last season.

ESPNHS: What do you think of the comparisons to Tim Tebow?
Stanton: I really do appreciate the comparisons to him. As unorthodox as he is, I still think he’s a good quarterback. He still finds a way to win, and there’s something to be said about that, especially at that level. Tebow isn’t afraid to run through guys, and I’m not afraid to, either. Just the way that he carries himself, he’s really a great role model for athletes.

ESPNHS: Where does your recruiting stand?
Stanton: The schools that have offered are Air Force, Washington, Cal, San Diego State and Navy. I’m hearing from Wisconsin, Oregon State and Nebraska and some from Washington State. I want to choose the best school for me, and whether that school has offered me or not, I’m not sure yet. I’m not really setting a timeframe. I’m not really worrying about it too much yet. As long as schools are still looking at me, I’m happy.

ESPNHS: What are you looking to prove at the Oakland regional?
Stanton: A lot of people think I’m an athlete playing quarterback. I want to show that I’m a better thrower than people think. There are going to be a lot of great quarterbacks there. I think I can throw it pretty well on the run. I’m trying to stay consistent and have a good day out there.

ESPNHS: What would an Elite 11 invite mean to you?
Stanton: It would be really cool. Just getting there would be a great accomplishment for me just to show how far I’ve come. It would mean a lot to me.

Johnny Stanton
School: Santa Margarita (Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.)
Position: QB
Class: 2013
2011 Team Record: 13-2 (CIF Division I state champ; No. 27 in POWERADE FAB 50)

2011 Stats
Passing Yards: 2,439
TD: 13
Rushing Yards: 1,528
TD: 25

Good Counsel (Olney, Md.) junior Dorian O’Daniel knows all about the importance of tradition.

And it’s tradition that’s helped the Falcons become one of the nation’s top football programs. Specifically, it’s the upperclassmen’s job to pass along all the integral knowledge, like what makes Good Counsel so successful, to the talented newcomers.

So that means spending extra time in the weight room and studying the playbook off the field and then filling your role come game time.

O’Daniel, who moved from Pittsburgh in the seventh grade, was taught all of that coming up at Good Counsel, and now he’s sharing all he’s learned to the underclassmen. And that will be especially important this season as the young Falcons look to replace several talented players from a team that finished undefeated for first time in school history, captured its third straight Washington Catholic Athletic Conference title and was ranked No. 5 in the POWERADE FAB 50.

Rated the nation’s No. 73 recruit in the ESPN 150, O’Daniel played a huge role on last season’s team while splitting time at running back and outside linebacker. He finished with 897 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 127 carries (7.1 yards per carry) and 38.5 tackles (15.5 for loss) and five sacks on defense.

This will be O’Daniel’s first season as a full-time starter at both positions this fall, and he and the likes of teammate Kendall Fuller, the No. 27 recruit in the ESPN 150, will look to make sure Good Counsel keeps up its winning ways.

O’Daniel made sure there won’t be any distractions by committing to Clemson in April. And his focus was on display at the Baltimore Nike Football Training Camp, where he earned an invite to The Opening.

Get Familiar with the two-way standout to see what he’s looking forward to this year.

ESPNHS: What does it mean to play for Good Counsel?
O’Daniel: It’s truly a blessing just to be a part of Good Counsel. One of the first things people think about Good Counsel is they produce good student-athletes, and to be a part of that is a good feeling.

ESPNHS: How would you describe what you were able to accomplish last year and how can you do more of the same this fall?
O’Daniel: Coming into the season, we knew everyone was going to try to knock us off the top, so we had to play extra hard every week. It’s more of a responsibility for us this year. We have big shoes to fill. Everyone is going to have to play their role. We’re making sure the young guys are in the weight room every day. You have to start this bond early so things will click once the season starts.

I’m looking forward to (this year) a lot. It’s my senior year. I’m not going to get any games back, so I’m going to leave it all out on the field.

ESPNHS: What led you to pick Clemson?
O’Daniel: Just going down there and getting the whole experience, I got a good vibe. It felt like a family atmosphere. It felt like home, honestly. If I’m spending four years in college, I want to feel comfortable there. There’s more to life than football. I’m focusing on getting a good education at Clemson and being productive in football.

ESPNHS: Have you talked to the coaching staff about letting you play a little running back?
O’Daniel: Right now, it’s strictly linebacker. The thought has crossed my mind about playing both ways.

ESPNHS: Does it help having teammates like Kendall Fuller going through the process with you and are you trying to get him to commit to Clemson now?
O’Daniel: Kendall is my brother. Just to talk about recruiting and comparing and contrasting thoughts to mine is huge. I’m in his ear about Clemson all the time. But it’s all fun and games right now.

ESPNHS: Who do you credit the most for getting you to this point?
O’Daniel: My mom, Kerri. She’s made so many sacrifices for me. I owe it all to her. She stood by me through the whole recruiting process. She’s put a lot on the line to help me.

DORIAN O’DANIEL
School: Good Counsel (Olney, Md.)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back/outside linebacker
HT: 6-1
WT: 205
College: Clemson

FAVORITES
TV Show: “Gruden QB Camp”
Movie: “Friday”
Musical Artist: Juicy J
Athlete: Reggie Bush
Pro Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
School Subject: English
Food: Steak and potatoes

Throughout this offseason, we’ve spotlighted Class of 2013 quarterbacks who have a shot at making the Elite 11 finals in July. This week, we profile Narbonne (Harbor City, Calif.) junior Troy Williams, who will compete in the Las Vegas Elite 11 regional on June 16.

Narbonne (Harbor City, Calif.) quarterback Troy Williams has all the physical tools. He’s a dual-threat quarterback, but he considers himself a pass-first signal-caller. He has outstanding speed, he’s getting stronger every day and he’s remarkably accurate.

Yet he might be at a bit of a disadvantage at the Elite 11 regional in Las Vegas on June 16.

The problem? Williams’ team runs a shotgun, no-huddle offense, meaning the 6-foot-1, 185-pounder isn’t as accustomed to taking five- and seven-step drops, resetting and firing at his target. Those are skills that are invaluable in the Elite 11 setting.

That said, we’re still giving this stellar QB as good a chance as any. Rated the nation’s No. 11 dual-threat quarterback by ESPN, Williams dominated as a junior, throwing for 3,247 yards and 34 touchdowns and rushing for 587 yards and 11 scores.

Williams led Narbonne to the CIF Los Angeles City Section title and an 11-3 record. This season, he’s hoping to lead his team to a state bowl game, and he thinks the Gauchos can go undefeated, too.

We caught up with the stellar playmaker to talk to him about his goals for the upcoming season as well as what he’s looking forward to at the Las Vegas Elite 11 regional?

ESPNHS: What are some things you’ve been working on this offseason?
Williams: It’s going good. I’ve spent a lot of time working on footwork, and I’m trying to get better at reading the field. I’ve been working out with (former NFL star) Keyshawn Johnson on the weekends.

ESPNHS: It’s not every day that you get to work out with a big star like that. How did you meet up with him?
Williams: He coaches a 7-on-7 team I’m on (the 1925s, based out of Los Angeles) and so we’ve been able to do some work with him. You don’t get a chance to work out with NFL guys every day, so I’ve really used that opportunity.

ESPNHS: What are some of your goals for this offseason, apart from working on footwork and reading the field?
Williams: I’m in the weight room every day. I want to get a lot bigger than I am now. I don’t want to look like some stick out there.

ESPNHS: You’re a dual-threat quarterback, and that can be very tough to manage. What is going through your mind when you’re trying to decide if you’re going to hang in there and make a pass or try to make a play with your feet?
Williams: I usually want to make a pass. If the pocket breaks down, I’ll try to break out and make a throw. Usually I’ll stay in the pocket as long as I can to make the throw. But if it breaks down, or my receiver messes up a route, or there just isn’t anything there, I have no problem breaking off a run.

ESPNHS: What are the expectations for Narbonne this fall?
Williams: We won the L.A. City Division title last season, and this year, I want to win another city title, I want to go undefeated and hopefully make it to state. Last year was fun, but I want to forget about last year now. That’s in the past. We have to come out more hungry now, take practice real serious, go out there and go get our undefeated season.

ESPNHS: Are you looking forward to being a leader?
Williams: Most definitely. I like it when guys look up to me. I like taking control of the team. I love being a leader.

ESPNHS: What are you most looking forward to about the Elite 11 competition?
Williams: I’m really excited. I saw a lot of it on TV last year, and I want to be that guy on TV this year and show everyone my promise. It’s a lot of good competition, you’re going against the best quarterbacks in the nation, and I want to show up and represent.

ESPNHS: Your team runs a no-huddle, shotgun offense. Is that difficult to pick up?
Williams: It was implemented before I got here, so I’ve been working on it ever since I’ve been here. It’s not as complicated as it seems. But it all goes by really fast. We roll out quickly in the no-huddle, and I just go out there and have fun.

ESPNHS: Update us on your recruiting. Where are you at right now?
Williams: It’s getting a little crazy right now. I’ve visited both Arizona State and Arizona, and I plan on visiting Washington soon. We’ll see how things go. I’m looking both in-state and out of state, and I just want to go to the right college and get a good education. I’m the one who’s going to be there for four years, so I have to make sure that I make the right decision for me.

Troy Williams
School: Narbonne (Harbor City, Calif.)
Position: QB
Class: 2013
2011 Team Record: 11-3 (won CIF Los Angeles City Section title)

2011 Stats
Completions-Attempts: 211-339 (.622)
Passing Yards: 3,247
TD: 34
Rushing Yards: 587
TD: 11

During the offseason, we’ll check out one team per week that looks like a sure bet to be among the best in the nation this fall.

FAB 50 Offseason Primer archive

This week’s team: Trinity (Louisville, Ky.)

2011 Season: 14-0, Class 6A state champion, No. 3 in the final POWERADE FAB 50.

Projected 2012 Preseason Ranking: Top 10. The Shamrocks, who are coming off the highest national ranking since 1938 for a Kentucky team, return several major offensive weapons who should bolster their chances for another high position. Since coach Bob Beatty took over in 2000, the Shamrocks have appeared in 11 of 12 state title games, including the last seven, and won nine crowns to boost the school's overall title haul to a state-record-tying 21.

Team Strengths: Trinity will bring back touted wide receiver/kick returner James Quick. Rated the nation’s No. 59 recruit in the ESPN 150, Quick earned ESPNHS Underclass All-American honors this past season after catching 82 passes for 1,434 yards and scoring 22 total touchdowns. Junior quarterback Travis Wright passed for 3,036 yards and 39 touchdowns with just three interceptions. And junior running back Dalyn Dawkins rushed for 1,901 yards on 237 carries and scored 34 total touchdowns. All three played huge roles in Trinity averaging nearly 50 points per game last season. Trinity’s main concern is replacing five graduated offensive linemen.

Another Kentucky team to watch: Highlands (Fort Thomas, Ky.) is to Class 4A what Trinity is to 6A. The Bluebirds also have 21 state titles, including the last five in a row, and if Highlands can find a replacement for graduated Gatorade State Player of the Year and University of Kentucky quarterback recruit Patrick Towles, the team could make it six in a row. Last season, Highlands finished No. 31 in the FAB 50 with a 15-0 record while setting state single-season records with 7,516 total yards, 849 points and 121 touchdowns. Last season's roster included 65 underclassmen and the backup to Towles was sophomore Drew Houliston. Veterans expected back include junior wide receiver Donovan McCoy and junior defensive back Blake Schutte. Highlands has played top Cincinnati teams in the past that often determines regional and national ranking positions. Highlands’ schedule this fall will feature a game against last season's state Class 6A state runner-up, Scott County (Georgetown, Ky.).

With a name like Taco, it’s hard not to get noticed. But Taco Charlton is also drawing attention for his play on the football field.

Charlton, whose real first name is Vidauntaé and was given the nickname by his grandmother, is rated the nation’s No. 9 defensive end by ESPN and the No. 115 overall recruit in the ESPN 150.

The 6-foot-6, 240-pound junior from Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio) shined on the gridiron this past fall, helping the Tigers to a Division I state runner-up finish. And he showed off his athleticism as the starting center on the Pickerington Central basketball team that captured its first state title in March.

Charlton has impressed throughout the offseason, earning All-Camp honors at the Long Beach Nike Football Training Camp on April 1 and then shining this past Saturday at the Columbus NFTC, where he snagged an invite to The Opening.

Charlton also got the attention of his family, many of whom are Ohio State fans, by committing to Michigan in February.

So what’s this defensive dynamo have in store for the rest of this year? Get Familiar with Taco Charlton.

ESPNHS: Who gave you your nickname?
Charlton: It came from my grandmother. It’s different. Nobody forgets it.

ESPNHS: What led a kid who grew up near Ohio State to pick Michigan?
Charlton: I just love the coaches there. I believe they can get me to the next level. It’s a great family atmosphere on the team, the fans there are crazy about their team and my parents love the academics. I always had Michigan as my leader. That’s where I really wanted to play. My whole family is Ohio State fans. At first they didn’t like it, but they’re starting to come along. They have scarlet and grey around their houses. I’m going to try to get them to change that.

ESPHS: How much does the loss in the state finals sting?
Charlton: It’s making us work even harder this year. We’re trying to get back there and win it this time. I won a state title in basketball in March, and I believe we can do that in football this year. I have to be a coach on the field. I want my senior year to be successful.

ESPNHS: What did it feel like to win a state title in basketball?
Charlton: To win the first state title in school history was crazy. Our school deserved it. We had a huge pep rally. Our coach got the key to the city. It was great to see. I got to go up against (2012 Michigan signee) Chris Wormley in the finals. It was a good matchup. I’ll tease him about it at Michigan.

ESPNHS: Why do you continue to compete at camps with all you’ve proven and having already committed to Michigan?
Charlton: I just love to compete and have fun. This is one of the few chances I can get to go against the best linemen in the country. And there’s the whole teaching aspect.

TACO CHARLTON
School: Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio)
Class: 2013
Position: Defensive end
HT: 6-6
WT: 240
College: Michigan

FAVORITES
TV Show: “The Game”
Movie: “He Got Game”
Musical Artist: Meek Mill
Athlete: LeBron James
Team: Michigan
School Subject: Math
Food: Chipotle burritos

The first round of players have been chosen for Champion Gridiron Kings, an elite 7-on-7 football event that will field 64 of the nation’s top skill position players. Now in its fourth year, Gridiron Kings will take place from July 28-29 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., as part of the ESPNHS Games presented by GNC.

Headlining the first group of this year’s invitees is the first two-time Gridiron Kings selection in quarterback Shane Morris of De La Salle Collegiate (Warren, Mich.). Last year, Morris led the Midwest to a runner-up finish after upsetting the Southeast in the semifinal round.

Morris, a Michigan commit, is rated the nation’s No. 4 pocket passer and No. 37 overall recruit in the ESPN 150.

So far, nine players have committed to participate in this summer’s event, including three ESPN 150 members who will man the defensive backfield for the West team — Rancho Cucamonga (Calif.) teammates Chris Hawkins and Tahaan Goodman and Marcos de Niza (Tempe, Ariz.) standout Priest Willis.

Hawkins has committed to USC, while Goodman and Willis are uncommitted.

Two other elite defensive backs who’ve committed to Gridiron Kings are Will Likely of Glades Central (Belle Glade, Fla.) and Sojourn Shelton of Plantation (Fla.). They’ll team up on the Southeast team.

A trio of elite pass catchers will present a formidable challenge to the defensive backs. Texas commit Jake Oliver of Jesuit (Dallas) and Skyline (Dallas) standout Ra’Shaad Samples will line up for the Southwest, while Autauga Academy (Prattville, Ala.) tight end and Alabama commit O.J. Howard will lead the Southeast.

Players will participate on teams representing their home regions — the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and West.

The first two years saw the Southeast team dominate and capture a pair of titles before the Southwest squad — consisting mainly of players from Texas — beat the Midwest team last summer to break the Southeast’s stranglehold.

Throughout this offseason, we’ve spotlighted Class of 2013 quarterbacks who have a shot at making the Elite 11 finals in July. This week, we profile Mentor (Ohio) junior Mitch Trubisky, who will compete in the Columbus Elite 11 regional in Ohio this Friday.

It’s been a whirlwind junior season for Mentor (Ohio) quarterback Mitch Trubisky, and he’s enjoying every minute of it.

The stellar signal-caller set multiple school records this season, won numerous accolades including Division I co-Player of the Year honors by The Associated Press, helped his team win 11 games and earn a berth in the regional finals, and to top it off, he’s earned some pretty impressive scholarship offers, including one from reigning BCS national champion Alabama.

As if that wasn’t enough, Trubisky is rated the nation’s No. 7 dual-threat quarterback by ESPN. In Trubisky’s mind, he’s simply out there to make plays and doesn’t care if that’s with his arm or his feet.

And he certainly got the job done last season, throwing for 3,845 yards and 41 touchdowns and running for 611 yards and 12 more scores. On Friday, he’ll put his stats – and his skill set – to the test against some of the area’s most impressive quarterbacks at the Elite 11 regional competition in Columbus, Ohio.

But before he takes on the competition, get to know Mitch Trubisky.

ESPNHS: How’s the offseason going? What have been some of your biggest goals this spring?
Trubisky: It’s going well. Lately I’ve been lifting with the team – we lift after school together – and the weather’s been great, so I’ve been getting out and throwing passing patterns to my receivers. I run the offense and we run their routes. My arm is getting stronger and I’m doing some speed training on the side as well as putting on some pounds.

ESPNHS: It must be tough to get faster and put on weight at the same time, right?
Trubisky: It’s a slower process for sure. If you put on too much weight too quickly, you are too slow, so it’s a gradual process. But those are always two things that will help out in the fall. You can never be too strong or too fast.

ESPNHS: Anything else you’ve been working on?
Trubisky: I’ve been watching a lot of film from last season. One of the things I want to do is know what everyone else’s jobs are and knowing what the defense is going to give us, so I can help my teammates be the best they can be as well as getting better myself.

ESPNHS: You’re going to be at the Elite 11 regional this weekend. What are some of the things you’re looking forward to about this competition?
Trubisky: The Elite 11 competition is awesome. I’m surprised at how big it’s become. If you’re a big-name QB, you want to get into this competition. I’m excited to compete and give it my best, and hopefully things will work out. It should be really exciting.

ESPNHS: What are some things you really want to showcase at the event?
Trubisky: I hope people can see my foot work and my arm strength and how accurate I am. I want to show people that I can throw the ball hard but be accurate with it as well.

ESPNHS: You’re rated as a dual-threat quarterback. Do you consider yourself a dual-threat QB?
Trubisky: Everyone asks me that. I guess you’d say dual threat, but I don’t really have a preference. I do whatever I have to for my team to be successful. If that means pulling it down and getting some yards with my feet, I’ll do whatever I can do.

ESPNHS: Is there one quarterback you model yourself after or that you like to watch?
Trubisky: I like to watch Aaron Rodgers and try to mimic what he does. I think he knows the game really well, he’s always a step ahead of the defense, and he’s so accurate. He’s got one of the quickest releases of any quarterback. It’s fun to watch.

ESPNHS: Give us an update on your recruiting. How are you enjoying the process so far?
Trubisky: It’s going really well. I’m taking it slow. I don’t know how far I am into the process, really. I don’t know when I’ll commit. A lot of schools are showing interest, and I’m excited to keep this thing going. When it’s time to decide, I’ll know it’s right, and then I’ll let everyone know. But I’m having fun with it and taking it slow. There’s been a few schools who have talked to me just recently and others who have been talking to me for a long time. I think right now, Alabama, Tennessee, Michigan State and Ohio State are my favorites, but I’m definitely keeping it open, because I know other schools are still looking at me.

ESPNHS: Finally, tell us a little bit about this fall. What are you looking forward to most?
Trubisky: My ultimate goal is to help us be the best team that we can be this year. I want to take my team to states and bring back a state championship and just be a great team player. The numbers don’t really matter to me. If my team has success, I’m sure I’ll have success. I’m just looking to have a lot of fun in my senior year.

Mitch Trubisky
School: Mentor
Position: QB
Class: 2013
2011 Team Record: 11-2 (lost in regional final)

2011 Stats
Passing Yards: 3,845
Passing TDs: 41
Rushing Yards: 611
Rushing TDs: 12

Despite rushing for 1,300 yards and 17 touchdowns last season, Alvin Kamara understands if he's overlooked at times. In fact, the Norcross (Ga.) junior tailback says it's a given, considering the top two players in the ESPN 150 -- Robert Nkemdiche and Reuben Foster -- also starred in Georgia last year. But that doesn't stop Kamara from believing he's the best.

That's why his goals entering the Atlanta NFTC on April 20 were simple -- win the MVP for his position and earn an invite to The Opening. Kamara did just that, using his power and rushing skills to achieve both his goals and stand out among some of the region's best players.

BCS football programs are plenty familiar with Kamara, who once received more than 100 recruiting letters in one day from Alabama. And come this fall, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound rusher is confident that the entire nation will also get familiar with this emerging star.

ESPNHS: What was clicking for you that allowed you to win the running back MVP at the Atlanta NFTC?
Kamara: The way I prepared prior to the NFTC really helped. We do workouts every morning at Norcross -- the same type of stuff we did at the NFTC, like bag work and running cuts and drills, so it was almost like another workout and I was probably better prepared than most. Also, my confidence and the way I approach things helped. I feel like I'm the best. And that's in no type of cocky manner. I just go out to be the best in everything that I do and I think that's what separated me.

ESPNHS: What was your favorite part and what was the hardest part of the camp?
Kamara: My favorite part was the one-on-ones with the linebackers. That's what everybody was waiting for, being able to run plays and routes because either you were going to get the ball or get embarrassed. The hardest part was probably the blocking drills. You didn't really know what to expect at first. I wasn't really ready the first time and the guy went right past me. So I had to refocus and get serious after that so no one else would get by me.

ESPNHS: How big is it in your development as a player to get an invite to The Opening?
Kamara: It feels great. I mean, those are the top 150 prospects in the nation, so to get invited to be a part of that is great. And I feel like with my performance at the NFTC, I definitely earned it.

ESPNHS: You're ranked number 79 in the ESPN 150 among a lot of other Georgia players. How do you feel about where you're ranked?
Kamara: I kind of just busted onto the scene whereas guys like Reuben (Foster) and (Robert) Nkemdiche have been on the map, so I understand and I'm not mad about it. But I'm going to work hard so I can move on up toward the top with some of those guys.

ESPNHS: Last year, you had a star receiver in Jason Croom who got a lot of attention from defenses. Now that's he graduated, all eyes will be on you. How do you plan on adjusting to the extra attention while still being effective?
Kamara: I saw Jason deal with it last year with all the attention he had on him, and he handled it real well. That's what I plan to do -- just stay humble and lead my team the best way I can so we can win.

ESPNHS: What is your biggest strength and what's something you want to improve upon?
Kamara: I'll start with what I want to improve on -- my lateral movement. I'm more of a straight ahead, speed and power guy, so I need to work on the lateral part of my game. I'd say my strength is my vision and speed as a runner.

ESPNHS: Your recruitment has received a lot of attention recently, from the 100 letters from Alabama to you saying that you, Foster and Tray Matthews plan on going to the same college. Where does your recruitment stand right now?
Kamara: My recruitment is still wide open. I'm just enjoying the process, going through it and talking to the schools that are looking at me. I'm trying to learn everything I can learn about each school. As far as me, Reuben and Tray, that's something we want to do and we've flirted with the issue a little. I know they are committed to different schools right now, but if it comes down to us wanting to play together, it will happen. But we'll see.

ALVIN KAMARA
School: Norcross (Ga.)
Class: 2013
Position: Running back
HT: 5-10
WT: 190

FAVORITES
Movie: "The Blind Side"
Car: Black Dodge Challenger
Food: Chicken
Athlete: Tiger Woods ("I've seen some interviews and videos of him and the way he talks about being the best and saying nobody can beat him, I like that.")
Team: Green Bay Packers
Subject: Language Arts

Brandon Parker covers high school sports for ESPNHS magazine and ESPNHS.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.

Throughout this offseason, we’ve spotlighted Class of 2013 quarterbacks who have a shot at making the Elite 11 finals in July. This week, we profile Holy Trinity (Hicksville, N.Y.) junior Chris Laviano, who competed at the Elite 11 regional at at Cowboys Stadium in March. Laviano won't be able to make this Saturday's New York City regional, but does plan on being at the Las Vegas regional in June.

Chris Laviano never thought he’d get the chance to play quarterback.

Up until the seventh grade, he saw most of his time at center and middle linebacker. Then he played running back and was the backup quarterback.

Finally in the eighth grade he got his chance and he hasn’t looked back since.

The 6-foot-2, 197-pound junior is rated the nation’s No. 2 pocket passer by ESPN and this fall he’ll be a four-year starter at Holy Trinity (Hicksville, N.Y.).

Laviano led Holy Trinity to a CHSFL Class AAA runner-up finish as a freshman and has thrown for 3,227 yards and 29 touchdowns the past two seasons. However, this past fall, a young Holy Trinity squad struggled to a 3-7 mark.

Laviano, who has offers from Boston College and Rutgers, is focusing this offseason to return Holy Trinity to its winning ways. He’s also aiming to earn a trip this summer to the Elite 11 finals in California.

In late March, Laviano impressed at the Dallas Elite 11 regional at Cowboys Stadium, but came away without an invite. He’s hoping it’s a different story in June at the Las Vegas Elite 11 regional, which Laviano plans on attending.

ESPNHS: How did it feel to be named the starting quarterback as a freshman?
Laviano: At the time, it was big. I had only played quarterback one year before in the eighth grade. I pretty much went from Pop Warner to varsity. I lived it up that year. I never felt any pressure because the upperclassmen were awesome. Our running back, Anthony Brunetti, took me under his wing and made it easier for me.

ESPNHS: You didn’t play quarterback until the eighth grade? What did you play before then?
Laviano: I played center and middle linebacker until the seventh grade. Then I played running back and was the backup QB. I just didn’t get the chance (to play quarterback). I’ve come a long way. If I take a step back and look at how far I’ve come, it’s pretty crazy.

ESPNHS: Who’s taught you the most about the position?
Laviano: My personal quarterback coach, Todd Krueger, has taught me the fundamentals and how to play the position. My coach at school, Dominick Tassone, also knows what he’s talking about. We do the drills they do at Elite 11 and also switch it up a little bit to get our receivers involved. Coach Tassone and I watch film and break down defenses all the time.

ESPNHS: Who do you credit the most for getting you to this point?
Laviano: Definitely my mom and dad. They’ve guided me through these four years and have never steered me wrong. I wouldn’t be here without them. And my head coach, Tony Mascia, has given me great advice as well.

ESPNHS: How difficult was last season?
Laviano: It was tough because we had two great years before then. It was a pretty rough year. But you bounce back and work even harder. Our whole team has a chip on its shoulder to get back to winning seasons.

ESPNHS: How would you describe your Elite 11 experience so far?
Laviano: I went to the Ohio State and Penn State regionals (last year). The experience of competing against kids your own age is the best part, just to be able to compare yourself against them. I was talking to as many kids as I could to see how their recruiting processes were going. I talked to Gunner Kiel and Zeke Pike. It was cool to get reps with the best. At the Dallas regional, I did well, but I think I did much better at the Nike Football Training Camp the next day. I threw much better. But I was definitely more prepared.

ESPNHS: What mentality are you taking with you into the Las Vegas regional?
Laviano: I’m definitely hungry. My ultimate goal is to make the finals. When you go to these events, you need something that’s going to separate you from 100 kids. You have to have a swagger and take it from the competition. You have to be first in line, have zip on the ball and be all business. It’s the last one, so you’ve got to give to it all.

Chris Laviano
School: Holy Trinity (Hicksville, N.Y.)
Position: QB
Class: 2013
2011 Team Record: 3-7 (Lost in Class AAAAA state semifinals)

2011 Stats
Completions-Attempts: 139-232 (.599)
Passing Yards: 1,713
TD: 14
INT: 9

During the offseason, we’ll check out one team per week that looks like a sure bet to be among the best in the nation this fall.

FAB 50 Offseason Primer Archive

This week’s team: Armwood (Seffner, Fla.)

2011 Season: 15-0, Class 6A state champion, No. 2 in final POWERADE FAB 50.

Projected 2012 Preseason Ranking: Top 25. This team’s positioning could be negatively impacted if harsh sanctions are handed down by the Florida High School Athletic Association at the conclusion of an ongoing investigation about the residency of players on last year’s team. On the field, the Hawks are loaded with returning players at the skill positions, but they will need to replace numerous top linemen. Armwood doesn’t have as much back overall as other Florida teams like Manatee (Bradenton, Fla.) or Miami Central (Miami), which is the team Armwood beat to win its state title. But coach Sean Callahan is a proven winner and those skill players are special.

Team Strengths: There aren’t many teams in the nation that will have a dynamic duo like Leon McQuay III and Alvin Bailey. McQuay, who’s No. 34 in the ESPN 150, is a ball-hawking safety. He also could see more time on offense next season. Meanwhile, Bailey is No. 49 in the ESPN 150. He caught six passes for 112 yards and one score when Armwood beat FAB 50 No. 8 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) 20-17 last year, handing the Gaels their only loss. He later switched to quarterback due to injuries and is expected to be back at wideout as a senior. Quarterback Darryl Richardson could be another strength while upcoming sophomore Keylaun Edwards could be another game-breaker. Edwards, who is the younger brother of graduating starter Wade Edwards, joined his brother as well as McQuay and Bailey as part of Armwood’s school-record-breaking 4x100 relay team. On defense, two leading tacklers who should return will be linebacker Warren Williams and defensive back Antonio McCullough.

Another Florida team to watch: We’ve already written up Manatee in this series and don’t want to do just a few sentences about another potential powerhouse like Miami Central or Plant (Tampa, Fla.), Armwood’s big local rival. So we’ll focus on a Tampa that could surprise in Wharton. The Wildcats were 6-6 last year, appeared in the Class 8A playoffs and will be led by receiver-cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III, the No. 4 recruit in the ESPN 150. In addition to Hargreaves, Wharton will return most of its roster, including 6-foot-6 sophomore quarterback Chase Litton (2,056 yards, 10 touchdowns) and leading tackler Rocky Enos.

By Walter Villa



This season is Sam Hunt’s volleyball finale, and it is looking like it could be a great one.

The 6-foot-6, 205-pound senior middle blocker plays for Servite (Anaheim, Calif.), the No. 5 team in the POWERADE FAB 50 national rankings.

But after the season ends, Hunt will focus on a different sport. After competing in volleyball, basketball and football for much of the past three years, Hunt will concentrate on football for Air Force, where he will also study engineering.

Hunt, 18, and Servite volleyball coach Matt Marrujo both used the words “mature decision” to describe Hunt’s choice to attend Air Force.

“Right out of college, you get a guaranteed job in your field,” Hunt said. “Rather than going to another college and wondering if I will have a job after I graduate, here I get a guarantee.”

Added Marrujo: “It’s a great opportunity. I would love to see him play college volleyball. But he has always been up-front with us. There are more scholarships in football.”

Marrujo said Hunt’s leaping ability has improved due to volleyball, which has helped him in football, where he plays wide receiver. In fact, Hunt was also used last year to get up and try to block field goals.

Servite football coach Troy Thomas said part of Hunt’s appeal for Air Force is that he can create mismatches because of his size and body control.

“He has huge growth potential,” Thomas said. “Being in a Division I weight room, you will see him put on 25 pounds and becoming a tough cover and a tough guy to bring down.”

Hunt played baseball as a freshman and didn’t play competitive volleyball until a year later.

He earned all-league honors as a junior, and Marrujo said it’s difficult to predict just how good he could have become had he played volleyball full-time.

“He jumped in with us right away,” Marrujo said. “I’ve gotten more calls from colleges about Sam than any other player.”

Hunt said he enjoys volleyball and dreams of winning a regional title (there is no state title in California), even though teams such as No. 1 Loyola (Los Angeles, Calif.) and No. 4 Mira Costa (Manhattan Beach, Calif.) could stand in the Friars’ way.

It was his brother, Ben Hunt, who convinced him to try volleyball. Ben, a 6-4 sophomore, is an outside hitter for Grand Canyon University in Phoenix.

Ben said his brother could have been recruited by the likes of Stanford and USC had he devoted himself to volleyball.

“It (stinks) for volleyball to lose a great athlete like Sam,” Ben said. “But seeing him play football, he is great at that, too. Sam can pick up any sport and in a week look like a natural.”

Sam Hunt, who has a 4.0 GPA, said he doesn’t really have a favorite sport. He just loves to compete and enjoys whatever sport he’s playing at the time.

But it is fair to say that volleyball has helped him become a better wide receiver.

“In volleyball, you have to be quick with your footwork, moving side to side,” he said. “As a receiver, I need to be able to move laterally or vertically and go get the ball, really attack.”

Hunt ran a 4.85 in the 40-yard dash before last season, but he feels he got a lot faster as the season progressed.

And that’s what makes him such an intriguing prospect.

By his own admission, Hunt felt “rookie-ish” at the start of every season, always transitioning over from a different sport.

He felt he made a lot of “dumb mistakes” early in the 2011 football season before he started running better routes and making difficult catches look easy.

Air Force coaches have told Hunt that if he gains a bit more weight, he will be moved to tight end. Hunt would prefer to stay at receiver, where he can jump over cornerbacks and grab touchdown passes.

Hunt knows there aren’t a lot of catches to go around in Air Force’s run-dominated option attack but says he is “fine with that.”

He’s also fine with the rigors of basic training. His grandfather was in the Navy and worked on submarines, disabling bombs. Two of his cousins were also in the Navy and traveled all over the world.

Those family members -- as well as other people he’s met -- have said that basic training is much harder mentally than it is physically.

“My recruiter didn’t sugarcoat it. He said it was going to (stink) my first two years,” Hunt said. “But I’m willing to go through the discipline and toughness.

“It seems hard. The (drill sergeant) will yell at you. But people get through it every year.”

Hunt will owe the Air Force a five-year commitment after graduation. At that time, he will give the Air Force three options of where he would like to be stationed.

After that, Hunt is free to either re-enlist or leave the military.

But all those tough decisions are years away. For now, Hunt wants to enjoy his senior season of volleyball and would love to go out on top.

“Sam has the perfect build for volleyball and is very quick to the pin,” Marrujo said. “He reads the game very well for a guy who hasn’t played a lot. Because of football, he is a very strong and physical player at the net and hits the ball hard.

“I think there is no question he could have been a Division I volleyball player.”

Chris Sailer Kicking and Rubio Long Snapping recently kicked off its Nike Spring Camp Tour with stops in Los Angeles, Dallas and Chicago. Specialists from more than 20 states gathered at these camps to learn and compete among some of the most talented kickers, punters and long snappers the nation had to offer.

Here were the top performances.

LOS ANGELES

CAMP CHAMPIONS

Kicker/Punter
Cameron Mercado, Palomar Junior College, Calif. (2013)
The talented kicker stepped up when it counted the most. Mercado has a strong leg and hits a very accurate ball. He should be one of the best junior college kicker in the nation this upcoming season.

Long Snapper
Cole Mazza, Liberty High School, Calif. (2013)
This amazing junior already has two full scholarship offers (UCLA and Washington State) and looks to have many more soon. He is truly the most dominant long snapper in the country with the heavy majority of his snaps being clocked in the .6s with several dipping into the .5s! A phenom if there ever was one.

Other Standouts
Kickers: Justin Moreno, Reedley Junior College, Calif. (2012); Bret Miller, San Clemente High School, Calif. (2013); Jordan Dascalo, Taft High School, Calif. (2013); and Joey Cejudo, Mount SAC Junior College, Calif. (2013)

Punters: Dylan Ausherman, College of the Sequoias Junior College, Calif. (2012), and Andrew Antognoli, San Joaquin Memorial High School, Calif. (2013)

Long Snappers: Reed Buce, Centennial High School, Ariz. (2013); Ryan DiSalvo, San Benito High School, Calif. (2012); Sodie Orr, Westlake High School, Calif. (2012); Chase Dominguez, Orange Lutheran High School, Calif. (2013); Mike Lizanich, Pinnacle High School, Ariz. (2013), Erik Thompson, Trabuco Hills High School, Calif. (2013) and Christian Samarzich, Upland High School, CA (2014)

DALLAS

CAMP CHAMPIONS

Kicker/Punter
Ty Cummings, Southlake Carroll High School, Texas (2013)
Cummings is without a doubt a top national prospect and has perhaps the strongest leg in the nation. He won the kickoff competition by hitting a kickoff 80 plus yards, with a 4.2 second-plus hang time. He has recently picked up an offer from Houston because of his huge performance in Dallas.

Long Snapper
Trey Lamastus, Saraland High School, Ala. (2013)
Lamastus snapped all day with a tremendous amount of confidence and it paid off in the end. His form is excellent and he uses his whole body very well. He’s a very smooth and efficient long snapper.

Other Standouts
Kickers: Izzy DePlaza, Colleyville Heritage High School, Texas (2012); Josh King, Guyer High School, Texas (2012); Benson Mulvaney, Briarwood High School, Ala. (2012); Bret Miller, San Clemente High School, Calif. (2013); and Matthew Sims, Lovejoy High School, Texas (2013)

Punter: Shane Tripucka, Allen High School, Texas (2013)

Long Snappers: Reid Buckingham, Lawrence Free State High School, Kan. (2014); Michael McGarry, Fort Worth County Day High School, Texas (2012); Chris Burger, Klein High School, Texas (2013); Matt Boggs, Benton High School, La. (2013); Sam Boyd, Highland Park High School, Texas (2013); Matt Bayliss, Holland High School, Okla. (2013); Adonis Smith, Cedar Hill High School, Texas (2013)

CHICAGO

CAMP CHAMPIONS

Kicker/Punter
Connor Shennan, Canton High School, Mich. (2013)
Connor is a tremendous kicking talent. He has one of the strongest legs in the nation, which is most apparent on his kickoffs. He is a fine college prospect who should receive big-time attention from college coaches this summer.

Long Snapper
Taybor Pepper, Saline High School, Mich. (2012)
Coming off earning a full scholarship the day before to Michigan State, Pepper came out and just dominated all day. Easily was at his best with confidence and accuracy of his snap. Getting bigger and continues to have impeccable form.

Other Standouts
Kickers: Michael Geiger, Ottawa High School, Ohio (2013); James Sykes, College of the Canyons Junior College, Calif. (2013); Joel Schipper, Grand Rapids Christian High School, Mich. (2013); Hayden Lekacz, Glenbard West High School, Ill. (2014); and Jon Duvic, Benet Academy, Ill. (2014)

Punters: Andrew Asken, Naperville Central High School, Ill. (2013); Nick Neidig, Tuscarawas Central Catholic High School, Ohio (2013); and Michael Knoll, Walsh Jesuit High School, Ohio (2014)

Long Snappers: Scott Daly, Downers Grove South High School, Ill. (2012); Gabriel Miller, Penn High School, Ind. (2013); Austin Orr, Cathedral High School, Ind. (2013), Greg Hohenstein, Wheaton Warrenville South High School, Ill. (2012); Alex Julien, Plainfield Central High School, Ill. (2013); Scott Sypniewski, Ottawa Marquette High School, Ill. (2013); Graydon Peterson, Whitefish Bay High School, Wis. (2013); Mike Perry, Nazareth Academy, Ill. (2013); and John Wirtel, Mount Carmel High School, Ill. (2013)

Chris Sailer Kicking and Rubio Long Snapping will wrap up its spring regional tour with stops in Charlotte and Atlanta in late April. The spring finale will take place in Las Vegas on May 12-13 at the 10th Annual National Kicking & Snapping Spring Event.