Thomas "Spencer" Craig '15 Recruiting Profile

l am a serious student who maintains a challenging course load with Honors and AP courses. My goal is to attend a top tier college in order to receive the best education possible in hope of pursuing a military career. Given my growth in recent years and successes in high school sports, my goals now include playing football in college.

Up until last year I considered basketball my best sport, having played point guard for our varsity team since my freshman year. Additionally, I have been competing at a high level both regionally and nationally with my AAU team. Now, in my junior year, my physical development has helped me determine that football is my top sport and where I will focus and commit my athletic efforts going forward. This past season I again started at OLB, coming third on our 9-2 playoff team in tackles, as well as playing backup quarterback.

Last spring I elected not to continue with lacrosse in order to focus on academics and standardized testing, making the desired gains in my SATs (2270). This spring and summer I will work on gaining strength and improving my speed and quickness. I am confident that I can make meaningful gains in both areas by the fall of my senior year.

Two attributes which may set me apart from many other recruits are my sports IQ and leadership ability. My coaches in youth and high school sports have commented that I can be like another coach on the field or court. Playing point guard, quarterback and linebacker have helped me further develop these skill sets. This season I was included with the coaching staff in play calling on offense. This unique experience has helped me develop a better understanding of the game and contributed to my development as a linebacker. To date I have received six sports leadership/character awards, including the ‘Character Award’ on the varsity football team this past season and the ‘Coach’s Leadership Award’ on the varsity basketball team as a sophomore. In the capacity of basketball co-captain in my sophomore and junior years I have further honed my communication and leadership skills. Overall, I would characterize myself as a selfless player who competes with the team's success as my top priority and who leaves the field having given 100%.

The rigors of my academics, athletics, and community service have prepared me for what it will take to succeed in college academics and athletics. Juggling leadership roles as core mentor and school representative to the principal's advisory council with volunteer work I have learned a great deal about time management and priorities. I am confident that I can continue to learn and develop as a football player and ultimately compete at that next level. I believe my character and athletic abilities can be an asset to any team and coaching staff both on the field and in the locker room.