Lasco - the urban legend is true

Word is travelling fast about The Woodlands (Texas) High School freshman phenom Daniel Lasco.

Is it too early to call this the Highlanders' next big thing? Let's see, in two games he rushed for over 320 yards. His shining performance came during The Woodlands' first-round playoff game where he ran for over 200 yards against the vaunted Westfield Mustang defense.

"He's going to be a good one," Westfield coach Corby Meekins said. "It's scary to think what he'll be like in three more years."

Since his break out football performance, Lasco has continued to shock the north Houston sports community. He recently won the district's 100- and 200-meter track events, while anchoring the school's 4 x 100-relay relay team.

"He's special," The Woodlands coach Mark Schmid said. "If he stays healthy and keeps his head on straight, he could be the best to come out of here."

So much buzz has surrounded Lasco that Texas running backs coach Major Applewhite visited The Woodlands and watched film on the talented youngster.

"Of course Major couldn't offer this kid, but he was very impressed with the film and his explosion," Schmid said. "He'll be back in years to come."

While Lasco is creating noise, other Woodlands prospects are also hitting the recruiting radar screen. Houston's leading returning receiver Alex Tweedy picked up his second offer last week from Air Force. He also holds an offer from Colorado State.

First-year varsity quarterback Andy McCloud showed well at the Fort Worth Nike Camp, and is prepared for a break-out senior season.

Defensive back Logan Rowe has been slowed by a leg injury as a result from track, but will be back to full strength this spring. Athlete Ryan Eastman starts for The Woodlands baseball team, and will be back for seven-on-seven tournaments in the summer. Eastman has the size and athleticism to play tight end or defensive end at the Division I level if he concentrates of football.

Sophomore offensive lineman Chad Lindsay recently visited the University of Texas' junior day as one of a handful of sophomores invited to campus.

"He was very impressed with everything he saw there," father Duff Lindsay said. "It's an impressive place that has everything to offer."

The Woodlands depth at the skill positions will only be complemented by the arrival of incoming freshman Michael Handy, a 5-foot-10 athlete who is developed well beyond his years.

An eighth-grader? Just remember this kid's name.