GREENACRES – Timing is everything.
After a light recruiting process for Jadiel Cruz, the moment has come to make his final college decision.
All is takes is one loyal commitment to Cruz’s overall growth as a player and person. St. Thomas is the college of choice for the John I. Leonard senior quarterback, as evidenced by his announcement this morning (Feb. 1) on social media.
“It was a great atmosphere and the coaches showed great interest,” said Cruz, who took a visit to St. Thomas on Jan. 17. “I really feel like I can build a family here.”
Cruz chose St. Thomas over Keiser, Manchester, Greensboro, and Community Christian. Interestingly, all five offers came his way in a span of just 10 days.
“I felt like it was a perfect fit,” the 5-foot-8, 180-pound quarterback said. “After my visit to the campus, it felt just like home. Although a different environment, I see myself succeeding for the next four years.”
Cruz finished his senior season at John I. Leonard with 1,732 all purpose yards, with eight passing touchdowns and nine rushing touchdowns. This amounts to 17 total scores in 10 games played.
Cruz, who ended last year as our No. 3-ranked quarterback and No. 51-ranked overall player, will go to St. Thomas with a chance at being the starter. While it’s clear there are no guarantees, the soon-to-be Bobcats player has relished the challenge ahead.
“I watched QB film with them on the visit and talked a lot about the position,” Cruz said. “I’m ready to earn what I want and prove to everyone that I can play the QB position, just like Lamar Jackson did. They told him to switch positions, but he stuck with it. I will do the same.”
Cruz will be teaming up with wide receiver Jonel Dieujuste at St. Thomas. The Cruz-Dieujuste connection was perhaps the best one for John I. Leonard this past season.
“Man Jonel is a playmaker,” Cruz said. “We will ball out in college this fall, so I can’t wait for what’s in store for us in the future.”
Dieujuste spoke on about Cruz’s playmaking and leadership abilities.
“Man he’s one of the hardest working guys I know,” Dieujuste said. “He’s been my quarterback since freshman year, and we have grown together since then. But we’re just getting started.”
In just four days, Cruz will officially sign on the dotted line to St. Thomas. It will be a momentous occasion for Cruz and Dieujuste, as they will move on to the next level together.
“We dreamed about playing college ball together since freshman year, and look at us now,” Cruz said. “We’re committed to the same school, and we’ll be signing on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2020. Dreams come true when you speak them into existence and work for it.”
PHOTO CREDITS: Gene Nardi and St. Thomas University Football
