Patchan picks Gators
Matt Patchan, one of the most coveted football recruits the Tampa Bay area has ever produced, made his college choice known to the world Saturday afternoon.
The Armwood All-American offensive lineman will be a Florida Gator.
Patchan, a five-star prospect according to most scouting services, is rated as the nation's No.11 overall player by Rivals.com. The 6-foot-7, 265-pound senior will enroll in classes next week.
He chose the Gators over Miami, where his father played in the 1980s.
Patchan said he grew up a Hurricanes fan. But after his announcement Saturday, he said, "I've got to do what's best for me ... I'm a Florida Gator.
Patchan said he didn't finalize his decision until about 45 minutes before his 1:30 p.m. press conference, which was held at Club Tampa Palms with about three dozen family, friends and media members there to watch.
"It was that tough (of a choice)," Patchan said. "It was the biggest decision of my life."
Patchan graduated from high school in December. He plans to leave for Gainesville on Monday.
"I'm excited," he said. "I'm ready to get up there and work my butt off."
-- KEITH NIEBUHR
The St. Petersburg Times High School Sports blog is written and compiled by the Times preps sports staff from Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties. We invite your participation in the comments area.
NO BRAINER
WHY WOULD ANYONE LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE
GATORNATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: | January 06, 2008 at 02:03 AM
Cheap shot artist has a home. Heaven help the gators.
Posted by: | January 05, 2008 at 10:16 PM
Congrats Matt! We're proud of you!
Posted by: Coach D | January 05, 2008 at 08:58 PM
Welcome to the Gator Nation Matt!!
Posted by: | January 05, 2008 at 01:44 PM