Early interest coming for Bateman
Anterio Bateman is only a junior but the diminutive running back from Gardena (Calif.) Serra who can also be used as a mismatch in the passing game is already receiving interest from some impressive programs.
Bateman, a 5-foot-6, 180-pound all-purpose back, said a bunch of Pac-12 schools have been sending recruiting mail along with Virginia, Georgia and Notre Dame.
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It's still been relatively light on the recruiting front but Bateman is having a strong junior season at Serra and hopes it picks up even more this off-season.
"I haven't been hearing from a lot of schools," Bateman said. "I've just been getting letters.
"I've been staying patient. I know after the season I should be able to get something. I've been playing really well, I just have to keep working hard and winning games. Everything should be coming together."
Bateman, who has 690 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 73 carries so far this season, said since he's only a junior recruiting isn't much of a concern yet.
He's more focused on winning the league and getting into the playoffs. That kind of success can only bring even more exposure.
"I'm not worrying about recruiting," Bateman said. "It's all about winning games and then the rest of it will take care of itself.
"The losses that we had we're learning from them. We plan to go undefeated in the Mission League, win the league and then head to the playoffs."
Serra already had its bye week earlier this month so Bateman doesn't think he'll take any unofficial visits this season. With another year of high school football left, Bateman is taking his time and is confident things will come together.
"I may just wait," Bateman said. "Our bye already passed so I'm going to wait to take some visits."