Five-star LB Hale prepares for officials

Five-star linebacker Shayne Hale scheduled three official visits to his top four schools late last month. The Monroeville (Pa.) Gateway prospect is getting ready for those visits and is working on a trip to his other finalist.

"I've got officials scheduled to Michigan on September 14th, Virginia on the 21st and West Virginia on October 19th," he said. "I haven't had a chance to go to Ohio State yet because of practice. I'm trying to work it in sometime soon. I'm not sure when I'll be able to do it since I've got a crazy football schedule.

"It may not even be an official. I might get up for a little visit and see the coaches."

Hale confirmed that all four schools are leading for his services. Is he considering anyone else?

"While I'm taking officials to those, I may check out some other schools still. Those are the top four though."

Meanwhile, visits are quickly approaching. The No. 20 prospect in the country discussed what he hopes to see on the trips which will help him make a decision.

"I want to see how their practices go, check out the campus, talk to a couple of people who work with the football players and see what the players do in their free time," he said. "I want to have fun and talk to the players. I want to find out the bad things and get a look at the all-around school."

In preparation for the season opener on September 1st, the No. 1 inside linebacker in the country is working hard in two-a-days.

"Camp has just started and I'm pulling crazy hours getting a lot of work in that is going to pay off in the end," he said. "Our team is looking pretty good and we're definitely hungrier than last year and working towards the present, not the future.

"As for myself, I've definitely pushed myself harder. When I get to the point I'm tired I break down and keep going. I'm having fun out there."