RB transfer is one to watch in 10

It's a new beginning for Roy Finch. Finch, one of the top running back prospects in the state of Florida among the Class of 2010, is starting over at Niceville (Fla.) High School. He recently moved to Florida's panhandle from the Sooner State. Moving is something Finch is used to and he's okay with his new destination.

"We moved from Edmond, Oklahoma about three or four months ago," Finch said. "My father is in the military and we are now stationed here. It's the third time moving and it is always stressful and a little scary.

"I was doing well in Edmond at the school and with the team. When I found out I talked with my coach and he was devastated. But I know everything works out for the good."

Finch is the oldest among two brothers and two sisters. Being the eldest is a role he takes very seriously.

"I know the moving is harder on them than it is with me. I just try and set a good example. That's just always who I am. I am respectful of my parents and all people in general."

Last season at Edmond North High School, Finch did a little of everything, playing running back, wide receiver (slot), kick returner, punt returner and even a little quarterback. Finch, 5-8 and 175 pounds (4.45 forty) totaled 1,600 yards and 12 touchdowns. You can see why he will be missed.

"I have been playing running back since I was five. That's when I first put the pads on. It was my grandfather that started me in football and I have always loved the game.

"I am the type that always give 110% on every play. I love game breakers like Reggie Bush and I love the ball being in my hands and making plays for my team. I have good quickness and elusiveness. I am dangerous when I get the ball in space."

Upon moving to Niceville High School, Finch had to sit tight a few days. That didn't stop him from immediately settling in with his new classmates, teammates and coaches.

"The reception has been great. When I first came here I couldn't do anything for a few days and had to sit out. But they knew about me. My parents sent word out to the school and staff so they were anticipating and waiting for me.

"There was love and I bonded well with coaches and my teammates."

Finch spent his freshman and sophomore seasons as Edmond. But at the time of his family's move to Florida there was still three weeks left at Niceville. That was plenty of time for Finch to make new friends and meet his new teammates. He didn't get to play spring football but he did work out with them all summer, including a few seven on seven tournaments.

"We have all worked hard in the off-season. We have the same goals and no one is going to let up. They have accepted me and now it's time to play ball."

Right now Finch doesn't have any (verbal) scholarship offers but there are schools showing him great interest and he also have three favorites at this time.

"I like Florida, Florida State and Auburn.

"I really like Urban Meyer at Florida. He is a phenomenal coach. Florida has athletes everywhere and they play as a team. That's why you go to a school like Florida, to compete. That's what I love to do because competition makes you better.

"I don't know too much about Florida State. I have really just seen them on TV. One thing I can say is that their fans are crazy. They love their Seminoles. They have a good school too.

"I have been to Auburn for a passing camp. I love their fans and love how they play. They are a physical team that plays mash mouth football. They are a hit you in the face type of team."

Finch camped this summer at Florida and it was here where he believes he impressed the Gator coaches.

"I had a great camp and did well in one on one in drills. They told me I was one of the best ones there. Coach (Kenny) Carter liked how I played game and liked my versatility."

Niceville opens up with Fort Walton Beach (Fla.) High School next weekend. For Finch he's focused on football and school knowing recruiting will sort itself out in due time.

"Academics are the biggest priority to me but I also want to go where I feel comfortable and fit in. I also want to play early.

"But honestly, the most important things to me are to keep my grades up and to just go play. You have to go out there and compete and play well. All of that other stuff (recruiting) will take care of itself."