When Garrett Reese started narrowing down his college options, he wasn't just looking for the perfect soccer environment.
The classroom side was a big priority for the Nazareth junior, who plans to major in international business.
At Indiana University, home to a top 10 business school, Reese found the perfect combination of athletics and academics. And that's why the 6-2, 170-pound defensive back was one of the first players committed to new Hoosiers coach Curt Cinetti.
In fact, two of Cignetti's first three recruits for the Class of 2025 are three-star prospects out of Illinois, Reese and Sandburg offensive lineman Matt Marek.
“I was impressed by the way they spoke to me during my visit,” Reese said. “They made me feel like I was a priority. They sold me that.” [how] They develop players in the weight room and speed. ”
The Hoosiers have had a rough year recently. But there is a mood of optimism in Bloomington with the arrival of Cignetti, who went 52-9 in five seasons at James Madison while coaching the Dukes in their transition from FCS to FBS.
Reese wants to help build something special at Indiana University. He has already played on two IHSA state championship teams at Nazareth and is no stranger to his success.
His stock soared in college after converting from wide receiver to defensive back, a transition that clearly took some getting used to.
“I didn't really like the change at first,” Reese said. “I started off with offense and really loved it. As time went on, I realized I was more natural on defense.”
He was always confident in his abilities. But Reese, who also has offers from California and Cincinnati, knows how few high school players have the opportunity to earn a Power Five scholarship.
“It was a little surreal,” he said. “When you look at yourself in the mirror, you don't think you're a big person.[time] Man. “
Prairie Ridge's new leader
Mike Frerichs, who was an assistant at Prairie Ridge the past two years, is the new head coach at one of the state's premier programs.
Frerichs replaces Chris Schrempp, who retired after 22 seasons with a 187-64 record and three state titles. Schrempf will become the Timberwolves' athletic director after Mark Gilbert retires at the end of this year.
Becoming a head coach feels like a natural evolution for Frerichs, a Crystal Lake South graduate who went on to play for current Alabama coach Karen DeBoer at small-school powerhouse Sioux Falls in South Dakota. .
Frerichs remained in South Dakota after his playing days ended. He was a high school assistant at Washington State Sioux Falls and won three state titles during his time there.
“It's great to be back at Crystal Lake,” Frerichs said. He sees no reason to fix what isn't broken.
Prairie Ridge will continue its highly productive triple-option offense, with the entire coaching staff expected to return this fall.
Frerichs is ready to take on the challenge of maintaining the Wolves' status as one of the state's best Class 6A teams in one of the state's best leagues.
“I’m just honored to be a part of this program and to be chosen by Chris,” he said. “The Fox Valley has been a tough football conference since my days playing in the South, and I'm honored to be a part of the Fox Valley's proud tradition.”
