News Summary

The Build the Bridge Showcase at John Carroll University attracted 550 high school football players from Northeast Ohio, connecting them with college scouts and showcasing their talents. With 65 colleges present, the event highlighted the growing passion for football in the community and provided athletes with opportunities to earn scholarships. Standout players demonstrated their skills in front of coaches while building valuable connections for their futures in football.

Build the Bridge Showcase Inspires Future Football Stars in University Heights

What a remarkable day for young football athletes in Northeast Ohio! The Build the Bridge Showcase took over John Carroll University’s Don Shula Stadium this past Monday, welcoming an astounding 550 high school football players from across the region. This growing event is proof of the rising passion for football in our community and the ambition of high school athletes looking to step up their game.

A Community Tradition Grows

When the showcase first kicked off just four years ago, only 225 participants showed up. Fast forward to today, and the numbers have more than doubled! It’s been a remarkable journey for organizer Kahari Hicks, who has dedicated himself to empowering young athletes seeking to elevate their football careers. Now coaching at Garfield Heights after a decade-long stint as an offensive coordinator at Cleveland Heights, Hicks’ enthusiasm for building a bridge to success for these players is contagious.

A Diverse Array of Colleges

An impressive 65 colleges came out to scout talent, including some big players from Division I such as Pittsburgh, Akron, and Kent State. The showcase wasn’t just about numbers; it was about connecting passionate athletes with the right opportunities. Players had the chance to compete in various drills led by the expert coaching staff at John Carroll, a golden opportunity to demonstrate their skills right in front of college coaches.

Athletes who took part ranged from those already on college radars to several hopefuls searching for their first scholarship offers. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and excitement as players put their best foot forward during the two-hour workout session, followed by invaluable networking opportunities with coaches.

Spotlight on Rising Talent

One standout participant was Darshawn Spragling Jr., a guard and defensive tackle from Akron East. Grateful for the opportunity to showcase his talents, Spragling indicated interest from several colleges, including Kent State, Toledo, and Eastern Kentucky.

Meanwhile, the Glenville team, coached by the influential Ted Ginn Sr., was also well-represented. Many players from Glenville, who had their commitments to track and field, couldn’t attend the earlier NEO Rising Legends Showcase but grasped this chance to shine. Some, like receiver DeAnthony “Duke” Crittenden, who had just won district titles, got reminders to push themselves wisely during the showcase. Crittenden’s remarkable athleticism may soon see him competing at the state championships, while his commitment to football remains strong, with scholarship offers from schools like Kentucky and Michigan State.

Another athlete, Pauly Sadler from Glenville, described the connection between track and football, emphasizing that the endurance built through track would pay off when the football season rolls around. The showcase was Sadler’s first football event before embarking on his college camp tour.

Others Making Waves

Aaron Scales, a teammate of Crittenden and Sadler, also made headlines by receiving his very first Division I scholarship offer during the showcase from Akron. Will Randall, the quarterback from Madison, caught the attention of Walsh University, further highlighting the impactful nature of this event. Furthermore, Tristin Hughes, who recently transferred from St. Edward to Rocky River, was able to impress enough to earn offers from Bowling Green, Eastern Michigan, and UMass.

As this showcase grows year after year, it not only elevates the visibility of talented athletes but it also sheds light on the incredible pool of football talent that Northeast Ohio has to offer. In a time where the transfer portal reigns, such opportunities are essential for athletes navigating their way through this evolving landscape of college football. With each passing year, the Build the Bridge Showcase remains a beacon of hope and success for young football stars dreaming big!

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