Somerville, N.J. Immaculata High School junior Theo Riddick today
verbally committed to play for the Fighting Irish of the University of
Notre Dame after high school graduation. Riddick, a running back, was a
key player in the Immaculata Spartans football program, which went 23-1
over the past two seasons. In 2007, Riddick scored 13 touchdowns,
scored 90 points, and rushed for nearly 1,200 yards. He averaged 6.85
yards per carry.
"It's been an honor to be considered by so many prestigious
programs," says Riddick. "Notre Dame's reputation, tradition, and
overall football program, as well as the scholar athletes whom I met
during my visit, convinced me that this was the place for me."
"This has been a difficult decision, but I was able to make it with
the support of my family, teammates, coaches, and the Spartan fans who
have been so encouraging to me for the past three years. Having made my
choice, now my total athletic focus will be on the upcoming football
season."
In 2006, when Immaculata won the state championship, Riddick was the
Star Ledger's Player of the Year in Somerset County and won the
Central Jersey's 1450 WCTC Brad Benson Hyundai-Mitsubishi Central
Jersey High School Player of the Game Award for victories against St.
John Vianney of Holmdel and Holy Spirit of Absecon. During the past
season, he was named All-County, All-Area, and All State-3rd team, along
with several Player of the Week designations.
According to Coach Pierce Frauenheim, who has le d the Spartan football
team for 42 years, Theo is a great player. "With his speed,
toughness, and vision, he is an asset to any team. Theo ranks among the
best players ever in our program. But besides being a superb athlete,
he is an outstanding individual with a strong character and competitive
work ethic."
Fans and the media have enjoyed watching the 5' 10", 190 pound
running back slip by tough defenses. "Theo can stop on a dime and cut
and slash through lines. He can return punts and kickoffs, as well as
help you significantly on the defensive side. We are very proud of
Theo's accomplishments and are thrilled that he will be part of one
of the country's premiere football programs at Notre Dame."
