St. John Bosco junior standout defensive back Naijiel Hale is primed for a sensational senior season in 2013. The ball-hawking corner just landed a scholarship offer from Nebraska. The black shirt Cornhusker defense would welcome the addition of a talent like Hale.
Boise State has also offered while Oregon, UCLA and Northwestern are just a few of the programs interested in Naijiel's services. As the recruiting process heats up, CLA expects Hale to continue to reel in offers from big time programs.
All things considered, Hale views Oregon as his dream school and his interest in the Ducks has not waned since Chip Kelly's departure to the NFL.
"Chip leaving wasn't really that much of an effect because I've been liking Oregon even before Chip was there. The person who has been contacting me has been the DB coach, Coach Neal. Coach Neal is going to fly out here to see me workout and size me up", said Hale.
The prospect of attending a quality academic institution like UCLA or Northwestern may also be a deciding factor.
"That's probably the main thing that's going to affect my decision. I may not go to the league. UCLA and Northwestern are both good schools. I want to go where I can get a good education," Hale told CLA Sports.
Naijiel hopes to play receiver for the Braves this upcoming season. Hale's game-breaking ability and elusiveness with the rock in hand certainly warrants his inclusion on the offensive side of the ball.
"I may start at receiver next year, I'm hoping on it. I didn't play last year because I had to learn the plays," Hale said.
Check out this highlight of Hale displaying his big play ability with an interception return to the house in the fog.
Naijiel Hale Junior Highlights
Just last week, Hale and teammate Jaleel Wadood led the Snoop Dogg All-Stars to the championship of the 4th Quarter Sports 7 on 7 Tournament hosted at Salesian High School.
The Braves should be loaded next season and anything short of a championship would likely be a disappointment. With his stock through the roof, Hale is focused on delivering a state title to St. John Bosco.
"Before my individual goal was to just get offers and now that they're coming in I want to look past that. With my team, I want to win state because we could have won last year. I want to go out with a ring," said Hale.
Naijiel Hale CLA Highlights
In the meantime, Hale is staying in top game shape by running track and training on a consistent basis.
"I'm running track and going to speed training and I workout 3 days a week in the mornings," said Hale.
Naijiel intends to take an unofficial visit to Boise in the future to check out the blue turf.
"Just for the love of Boise, because they were my first offer, I'm going to take one there."
CLA looks forward to covering Hale this upcoming season as he leads the Braves on a quest for a state title.
