Illinois Lands Super Recruit Cortez
Illinois Lands Super Recruit Cortez
Cortez Stays Home, Joins Illini
Willie Saylor, Editor
One of the most coveted prospects for the Class of 2014 is off the market.
Jered Cortez, who just won a Fargo Junior Freestyle title to go along with his Cadet title, is bound for an Illini program with a bright future. Illinois is coming off an impressive run of quality recruiting efforts including 2013's #5 Class.
In Cortez, they will get the services of nation's 5th ranked prospect. Cortez is also ranked as the country's #1 wrestler at 126lbs.
Cortez, from the perennially tough Glenbard North program, has long been one of the premier talents, having been ranked since his freshman season. He's looking to become a four-time state champion in his final campaign.
We had the privelege of speaking with Jered on his big decision.
WS: Why was Illinois the right place for you?
JC: It felt like home. Other schools may have had more of storied history, But I like what's happening at Illinois. I think we can really build something special here.
WS: You had a lot of powerhouses recruiting you. What schools were on your final list?
JC: Oklahoma State, Minnesota, Rutgers and Nebraska, Iowa, and Penn State
WS: Many people are speculating what weight you may go in college. What do you see yourself at in college?
JC: Depends on my growth. There's a unique situation at Illinois where I could work my way in to the line-up at either 125 or 133. I plan on redshirting and then we'll see where I'm at then. The coaching staff told me they don't want me to commit to a weight. They want me to just be natural and see where I get to.
WS: After winning Fargo a couple weeks ago, this has been a heck of a summer for you.
JC: It's been a great summer. I really wanted that Fargo title and now my college decision's off my back. I get to train for my 4th state title and relax and take everything in. I just have one last year left. After that I have my sites set on making the Junior World Team.
WS: Is there anything else you'd like to say?
JC: I have to thank my family who has done so much for me. And all my coaches. Most of all I have to thank God for blessing me with with these opportunities.
Congrats to the Cortez Family and the Illinois and Glenbard North Wrestling Communities!
View All 2014 DI Commitments
Insiders View Jered's Profile
Willie Saylor, Editor
One of the most coveted prospects for the Class of 2014 is off the market.
Jered Cortez, who just won a Fargo Junior Freestyle title to go along with his Cadet title, is bound for an Illini program with a bright future. Illinois is coming off an impressive run of quality recruiting efforts including 2013's #5 Class.
In Cortez, they will get the services of nation's 5th ranked prospect. Cortez is also ranked as the country's #1 wrestler at 126lbs.
Cortez, from the perennially tough Glenbard North program, has long been one of the premier talents, having been ranked since his freshman season. He's looking to become a four-time state champion in his final campaign.
We had the privelege of speaking with Jered on his big decision.
WS: Why was Illinois the right place for you?
JC: It felt like home. Other schools may have had more of storied history, But I like what's happening at Illinois. I think we can really build something special here.
WS: You had a lot of powerhouses recruiting you. What schools were on your final list?
JC: Oklahoma State, Minnesota, Rutgers and Nebraska, Iowa, and Penn State
WS: Many people are speculating what weight you may go in college. What do you see yourself at in college?
JC: Depends on my growth. There's a unique situation at Illinois where I could work my way in to the line-up at either 125 or 133. I plan on redshirting and then we'll see where I'm at then. The coaching staff told me they don't want me to commit to a weight. They want me to just be natural and see where I get to.
WS: After winning Fargo a couple weeks ago, this has been a heck of a summer for you.
JC: It's been a great summer. I really wanted that Fargo title and now my college decision's off my back. I get to train for my 4th state title and relax and take everything in. I just have one last year left. After that I have my sites set on making the Junior World Team.
WS: Is there anything else you'd like to say?
JC: I have to thank my family who has done so much for me. And all my coaches. Most of all I have to thank God for blessing me with with these opportunities.
Congrats to the Cortez Family and the Illinois and Glenbard North Wrestling Communities!
View All 2014 DI Commitments
Insiders View Jered's Profile