Wednesday, Feb. 6 was a busy day in the world of collegiate sports as schools across the nation competed to sign the best athletes to their programs. National Signing Day not only involves coaches, but also spurs buzz and chatter in loyal fans who keep up with their favorite teams.
Harding University was just as busy recruiting throughout the past several months as anyone else in the nation. Whether its Division I, Division II or Division III, every school reaches out to the best talent they can attract.
College recruiters look for talent, and for the most part that is the main priority that will get athletes a scholarship for most athletic programs. At Harding, head football coach Ron Huckeba and his staff strive for more than just a talented football player.
“This year we believe is the overall highest academic achieving class, based on GPA and test scores,” wide receivers coach Luke Cullins said. “If you look through the bios of our incoming guys you will see the following: class presidents, FCA presidents, young men graduating at the top of their class, 30 and above ACT scores, along with outstanding accomplishments in their local congregations.”
Cullins said he believes Harding does extremely well in meeting the team’s standards in athletics and other areas.
Harding football took off into an unknown territory when they reached the post season last year, and coaches said they are hoping to make it to the playoffs again. Harding lost nine defensive starters and two offensive starters from last year.
According to an interview done by Harding Sports, Huckeba said the concern for defense may not be as high as some think.
“We lost a lot of defensive players, but we play so many guys throughout a game, that we return a veteran defense,” Huckeba said.
There are high expectations are on the table for this 2013 offensive group to shine.
The football team signed a total of 28 new players. For more information on the individual signees including highlight videos, go to www.hardingsports.com,
Congratulations to the new members of the Bison Family.
