Big year sees interest pick up for Velasquez

Fairfax (Va.) Robinson safety Jared Velasquez is putting together an impressive season according to head coach Mark Bendorf. What's the latest for the 6-foot-1, 185-pounder?

"He had a heck of a junior year, 1,300-yards," he said. "I don't know what's different this year. He's had a really good senior year. He's taken two kickoffs back for touchdowns and a third was called back. Defensively he's been as good as any defensive back up here, offensively he's had 1,000-yards rushing and 18 total touchdowns."

What sticks out about Velasquez?

"The thing that makes him unique really is that I don't know if I've ever had a player as productive in so many ways as him," he said. "There are two-way guys, who are maybe better on offense or defense. Last year he was all-district in three positions and this year he has a chance to be all-region in three positions. He's a threat in the kick return game, he's as good as there is out there on defense and an offensive threat in the passing game and as a runner.

"I've had good players who are defensive backs or running backs, but as far as being a complete football player, he's at the top of the list."

Velasquez has helped Robinson to a 7-2 record as they close out the regular season against Centreville on Friday.

Colleges are taking notice of the big year for the Northern Virginia prospect.

"I've gotten a lot of interest for him," he said. "He's got an offer from Richmond and a tentative offer from William & Mary. They are waiting on his first quarter grades, which I just sent out.

"It was a mutual parting between him and West Virginia. They tried to squeeze a commit and he wasn't ready. They filled the spot and got a prospect from Pennsylvania. I don't think he's considering them anymore.

"Boston College has come down for a game, Coach Siravo. Virginia Tech picked up additional film last Thursday and Northwestern has been mailing me. They are in the process of evaluating him."

Meanwhile, Robinson has one prospect to watch for 2012.

"We got an outside linebacker, 6-foot-2, 185-pound Nathan Holyfield," he said. "The kid will draw some college interest. He's fast."