Amazing is the way I would describe the St Ignatius football practice. In one word "amazing." So much teaching going on. So much organization. So many players. Talked with Head Coach Chuck Kyle for a few minutes and was, also, able to chat with my friend, top assistant Nick Restifo. I would have not expected anything less, Coach Kyle was "into" practice, even correcting his punters during special teams practice.
O-State recruit Blake Thomas looked solid at tight end. Strong and really like the way he releases on pass routes. No pads, so I did not see him at his strength-- run blocking. Talked with him about how media keep questioning him about changing his verbal. As we agreed, "Ohio State is Ohio State."
Transfer senior Eric Williams, from Portland, Oregon threw the ball well. Guessing 6'1-190, he has good pocket presence and throws well on the run. Like his leadership skills. Just needs to get to know his receivers and get comfortable in the St Ignatius passing game. Played for a team who concentrated on the running game. Will be alright.
Mike Svetina, strong safety, headed to Miami, is getting bigger and bigger. Runs well and really his defensive mentality. Again no pads, but he is an intelligent, tough guy who will strike you.
Another McVey at Ignatius. Tim McVey (Ohio Class of 2013) played alot last year, until he was injured. Ran track last spring, after an excellent indoor season. Being counted on to play both ways. Not great size, but fast, strong, quick, and, most of all, tough. Excellent attitude.
St Ignatius has some really promising sophomores, but their time will come. Quite possible some will see playing time later in the season. Now that is my uneducated guess, but too early for a veteran coach like Coach Kyle to make that decision.
Another highlight of the camp was visiting with my retired Plain Dealer sports-writer friend, Eddie Dwyer. He even remembers my old magazines of 20+ years ago. A book of high school sports knowledge, he now works with Iggie football. Really helped put a name with the face.
Like many of the "big school" programs throughout the state, St Ignatius had more kids in one group, than some schools do on their whole team. Fun time for me and, yes, I did evaluate some really good prospects. Keep on eye on some of the sophomores, especially an offensive lineman.
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