Lisles Army Bowl berth has special significance
SAN ANTONIO -- Once the U.S. Army All-American Bowl invitation arrived for Evan Lisle, the Centerville, Ohio, four-star offensive tackle knew he would accept.
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He made the choice, his Army father certainly supported it and Lisle arrived here Sunday ready to compete and be a part of the weeklong experience.
It was extra special for Lisle since his father, Steve, graduated from West Point and wrestled for the Army and the day he received his Army jersey his brother, Nick, left for boot camp.
So, the decision made, the four-star could not be more excited.
"When I got the invitation I was in school, they came in and gave a little speech," Lisle said. "It's kind of surreal. You see people do it and you always want to be that guy, but to be that guy is just such a huge honor.
"It's exciting. I'm ready to compete. It really gets you ready to prove yourself and represent yourself. The Army is the best and not only that, it's just so big, it's really just a no-brainer to be a part of all this."
The Ohio State commit said the specialness of this experience is even greater because his father was a part of the Army culture.
"He was very excited," Lisle said.
Lisle's brother will not be able to watch the game live, but the four-star is sure it will be recorded so it will be available to view any time. Knowing that he's in the game, Lisle said, will be enough for his brother to be thrilled about it.
On the field so far this week it's been a mixed bag, according to those at East practices. Lisle has shown toughness and grit but he's still getting used to the advanced competition level.
According to Rivals.com national analyst Mike Farrell, Lisle is holding his own and has impressive physical tools.
"He's got a good frame to fill out," Lisle said. "He has long arms but he's struggled a little bit with the physical play and step up in competition."
Nevertheless, Saturday will mean a lot to Lisle from an evaluation perspective and for his family, Army through and through.
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