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| Big Man Academy Day 1 Recap |
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| 5/31/2008- DeBartolo Sports University officially launched itβs first ever Big Man Academy held on the campus of Ambassador College in Pasadena, California.
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Featuring special guest instructors such as three-time Super Bowl Champion Randy Cross (Former San Francisco 49ers All-Pro Offensive Lineman) and Bill Laveroni (Former Seattle Seahawks Offensive Line Coach), lineman in attendance were able to pick the brains of some of the most knowledgeable minds in the business.
Of all the big bodies in attendance for Day One of the inaugural Big Man Academy, the following individuals exemplified noteworthy performances:
Throughout the morning session, Jacob Christopher (El Centro, Calif./Central Union) impressed Randy Cross with his high motor and up-tempo style of play. As a two-way player, Christopher began the day as an offensive tackle, then excelled as a defensive end in the afternoon session.
Lance de Haas (San Juan Capistrano, Calif./Capistrano Valley Christian) caught the eye of several Big Man instructors with his size, agility and ability to explode out of his stance.
Gavin Pascarella (Corona, Calif./Centennial) was a true leader on the field as he helped fellow lineman in attendance with their technique throughout the early stages of the Academy. Leading by example, Pascarella showed tremendous athleticism, skill, and technique.
Arriving for the second half of the day was Everett Benyard (San Diego, Calif./Cathedral Catholic). The top offensive tackle prospect has a massive frame (6-6 315 lbs), superb technique, and is a ferocious blocker. In the coming years, Benyard will be a key fixture on the offensive line at the next level.
During a pulling drill conducted by Randy Cross, Carneel Ainsworth (Baton Rouge, La./Parkview Baptist) demonstrated quick footwork, precise angles, power and strength that went unmatched by most participants. Primarily recruited by SEC schools such as Auburn, Alabama, and LSU; the Louisiana lineman may no longer be a secret to the West Coast. Making the most of his trip out west, Ainsworth made unofficial visits to USC and UCLA.
Notable Underclass Performers:
David Hotchkiss (Perris, Calif./Citrus Hill) exhibited his raw power and strength during field drills. Hodgkiss is a sure bet to catapult himself onto the recruiting boards of Division I college programs.
Three players from Crespi Carmelite that really stood out were offensive tackles Brandon Greenberg, Ben Loth, and defensive end Alex Guzzi. The trio provides the Celts with a very intimidating look up front heading into the 2008 season
A standout performer from the class of 2012 was offensive guard, Nick Budincich (Los Angeles, Calif./Loyola HS). Only an eighth grader, Budincich has already grown into the body of a varsity lineman. He had a very impressive showing at the Academy and held his own against many of the upperclassman he confronted in drills.
Also exhibiting noteworthy performances during Day One of the Academy were Justin Jones (Pasadena, Calif./Pasadena), Anthony Flores (Los Angeles, Calif./Lincoln), Jeremy Jacob (Pasadena, Calif./John Muir), Joseph Perez (Los Angeles, Calif./Woodrow Wilson), and Jeremy Salgado (Bloomington, Calif./Bloomington).
With Day One of the Big Man Academy in the books, Day Two is sure to provide more excitement as Kevin Graf (Agoura, Calif./Agoura) and Michael Phillip (San Bernardino, Calif./Arroyo Valley) will be in attendance.
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