Last week, Warren Central High School defensive tackle (and Coach E’s All Marion County first team player) Sheldon Day announced that he had accepted a scholarship offer to play football at the University of Notre Dame. I caught up with Day to talk about the recruiting process and his decision.
Coach E: How was the recruiting process?
Sheldon Day: The recruiting process is actually fun. The feeling of being needed and wanted makes you feel good about yourself. It makes you feel like a newborn baby and everyone wants to hold you. The only time it gets stressful is when you come down to decision time and you have many schools you like, but can only choose one. Also, after you choose the school you’ll attend, it’s important to call the other top schools and tell them out of respect your plans.
Why did you pick Notre Dame?
I picked Notre Dame because of the academic opportunities and the experience of the coaching staff had a big influence in my decision.
How many schools did you narrow it down to?
It came down to a few schools, some in the Big Ten, ACC, SEC and Big 12.
What is your current grade point average?
My current GPA is 3.7
How were you able to maintain such a high GPA with the busy schedule you had?
I received a lot of help from my mom and my coaches, and kept my grades up by using time management skills that took me a while to master.
Why do you like playing defensive line?
I love the fact that every play I get to hit somebody and they can’t avoid it. I love the physicality and toughness that the position requires. I also love the fact that you are challenged to get to the quarter back instead of having a free shot.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself in medical school in five years or working for a firm. I either want to become an anesthesiologist or go into sports management. I plan on majoring in these subjects because I like math, and I am a friendly person.
I saw you at the Ohio State combine and you had some great pass rush moves. What is your favorite move?
I wouldn’t say I am a great pass rusher, but my favorite move is the “stab” or “long arm” technique. It is a move where you can choose which way you want to go and also have a free arm to bat the ball. You can also do every other move off of the long arm such as push pull and club rip or chop. It is also a great move.
