Ohio University head coach Frank Solich grew up in Cleveland. He attended Cathedral Latin High School. He played in the annual charity game at Cleveland Stadium. In other words, he knows the area very well. He knows the type of high school football that is played in this part of the state. It makes perfect sense for him to hit this area hard in his recruiting efforts. His hard work and knowledge of the area has paid off, as he went into Solon and plucked two gems...
Running back Kyle Hammonds and linebacker Jovon Johnson
To see Kyle Hammonds recruiting video, click here
To see Jovon Johnson's recruiting video, click here
Friends since the eighth grade...Hammonds and Johnson have been friends since the eighth grade, when Johnson moved to Solon. It is that familiarity that will help the transition for both of them when entering college. It doesn't stop there. Johnson, who will play linebacker at Ohio University, also doubled as the starting fullback for the Comets, and open holes for, you guessed it, Hammonds.
Meet Kyle Hammonds...Kyle Hammonds was a three year starter at tailback for Solon. In those three years, he put up some mighty impressive numbers. A first team all-conference selection for the last two seasons, Hammonds led the Comet offense to two straight undefeated regular seasons, and two regional finals appearances. He has rushed for over 3400 yards and 45 touchdowns in his three years. On April 12th of this year, he gave his verbal commitment to Solich and the Bobcats. Given the spread offense that the Bobcats run, the 5-9 180 pound Hammonds may see action right away for the Bobcats.
Meet Jovon Johnson...Jovon Johnson was the ringleader of one of the best defenses in the Cleveland area. The 6-0 200 pound three year starter also may see action right away for the Bobcats. Johnson biggest strength as a player is his speed. Running a 4.5 40 yard dash, Johnson is always around the ball, and plays with reckless abandon. Being able to squat close to 500 pounds tells you that he is strong enough to play at the next level. It took a little longer, but on July 18th, he gave his verbal commitment to Solich and the Bobcats.
Winning programs breed winning people...One thing that may be lost in the infatuation of won-loss records is the effect that winning has on the type of person one becomes. Winning is contagious. It shows people that hard work and sacrifice is worth it. It shows that mental toughness and the ability to overcome adversity will serve one well in the future. What Kyle Hammonds and Jovon Johnson bring to Ohio University is that winning mentality.
And on National Signing Day February 2nd, Ohio University is getting themselves not only two great players, but two great players that know how to win.
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