Cali OL is Big 10 bound

Santa Rosa (Calif.) Cardinal Newman offensive lineman Alex Netter emerged this past season as one of the top line prospects in the state. After mulling over a handful of scholarship offers, the talented tackle will play his college ball in the Big 10.

"I committed late last week to Northwestern," Netter said. "I'm so excited about my decision and excited at the opportunity to play for coach Fitzgerald.

"I felt that Northwestern was the right place for me and a perfect fit. Academics played a major role in the decision making process for my family and me. The coaching staff at Northwestern is amazing, the academics are top notch and the school is just 15 minutes from Chicago.

"Every school recruiting me had a specific aspect that I really liked, but Northwestern has everything I like and more. Coach Fitz was very excited about my decision and told me I was the 15th commitment in one of the best recruiting classes they have ever seen.

"Coach Fitz is the youngest coach in NCAA football and he can really relate to his players. He has a lot of pride for Northwestern as he was on the 1996 team that went to the Rose Bowl and played against USC. I also get along well with Coach Ingalls, the OL coach, who was also very excited and told me I was the second OL commitment and they will sign two more this class."

Netter had trips set with San Diego State and Fresno State but will not be taking any other visits.

"I'm going to take my official visit as soon as our season is over and Northwestern will be the only trip I take." Netter added. I couldn't have a made a better decision and I'm excited about getting the best education possible while getting the opportunity to play football in the Big 10, the best conference in America.

"I also want to thank Coach Hill, Coach Long, Coach Tomey, Coach Guy, Coach Biggs and all the other coaches who spent their time, interests and efforts in recruiting me but Northwestern was just too to pass up."