OL excels on field, in classroom

The combination of raw power on the offensive line and high intelligence in the classroom make Daytona Beach (Fla.) Mainland standout Eddie Tabasky an intriguing prospect in the Class of 2005.

Tabasky (6-3, 320, 5.3) earned all-state honors as a junior. His play at center anchored Mainland’s offensive line and helped drive the Buccaneers to a 13-1 record and the Class 5A state championship.

“He’s the strongest kid ever to play at Mainland, and a 4.4 student to boot,” Mainland coach John Moronto said. “Miami’s interested in him because he’s not only a good football player, but an exceptional student. He went to a neurological seminar there this past summer, and the president of the university walked around campus with him for 45 minutes. That tells you what kind of kid he is.”

Moronto said once Tabasky sets his mind to something, he strives to be the best.

“He’s got tremendous work ethic in anything he does,” Moronto said. “He’s never missed a workout. He’s a tough kid, physically and mentally.”

Tabasky bench presses 400 pounds and squats close to 600.