Hart & Determination
In a year that recruiting is pushing D-1 caliber talent to the lower levels, Sunrise Mountain TE John Hart (6’4 235 lbs), has shown the fight and determination to play at the highest level.
We asked Hart when we had a chance to sit down, what separates him from his competition. “I am an extremely strong blocker who is also versatile in the passing game. I run crisp, short routes and can also go vertical.” My Recruits had a chance to speak with several college level Offensive Coordinators who feel the same way. One OC is quoted as saying “John not only fits what we do here currently, but potentially can fit into some changes we are looking at making.”
The biggest thing for Hart in finding the right program, he emphasized was finding the best overall fit not only athletically but also academically.
John is looking at majoring in either business or engineering. Another key element in John’s selection process will be to make sure he is a priority and not an option… Something more recruits should want to be.
John Hart has established himself as a total athlete. Not only is John the #4 Ranked Tight End in the State of Arizona, but was also an All-Conference Defensive End. In addition to football, John was also a volleyball MVP with 33 kills, and a power forward on his high school basketball team. if this doesn’t show athleticism, i don’t know what does!
Another question I asked Hart was how do you prepare for the high level that you perform on? and without hesitation, Hart answered “Mental Toughness! Not only do I try to build myself as a total athlete through multi-sport competition, extensive film study and relentless physical training, but I work mental toughness just as much.”
As a recruiter, the one thing that this generation of athlete is lacking has proven to be mental toughness. John is very well respected amongst his peers, and was voted captain by his teammates as he enters his 4th year of varsity football. I asked John about his relationship with his coaches and teammates and again John emphatically stated “Respect needs to be earned, not given.” Hart has definitely earned the respect of teachers and administration at Sunrise Mountain High School, ranking in the top 10% of his class.
Another accolade that John is very proud of is earning Eagle Scout Honors, which shows his level of commitment, leadership and overall character.
So what options of colleges does John currently have, you ask? Several major programs have been in touch including the University of Utah, BYU, the University of St Thomas, Illinois State and out of the Ivy League, Cornell. John has received A scholarship offer from Hastings College in Nebraska and South Dakota School Of Mines, and most recently a PWO to the University of Arizona. The U of A Tight End Coach Jordan Paopao loves what Hart does and sees him as a great fit for the Arizona Offense. One thing is for sure, whoever lands this top talent, is definitely getting the total package!
