By Michael Cruz
About two years ago I saw De’Aundre Cruz run back a kickoff return for a touchdown for the Matua all-stars against a junior varsity team from Singapore. I remember his interview and him giving credit to his blockers. Cruz is now heading into his junior year as Father Duenas (Guam) returning starting running back. He is currently in Hawaii training with renowned strength and conditioning coach Chad Ikei.
On June 8, he received his first offer from NAIA program Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri. Cruz may be the first underclassman in Guam prep history to receive a college offer this early. He was discovered through NCSA recruiting site where he had his highlights posted. The director of international recruiting Karl Calini thought Guam was an international country asking De’Aundre for a foreign passport.
Cruz attended his first satellite camp at the University of Hawaii two weeks ago. He attended his second one which featured the University of Michigan and University of Hawaii shortly thereafter.
Michigan Head Coach Jim Harbaugh will be in attendance. Cruz ran for over 1,300 yards in his freshman and sophomore year combined. He currently stands 6’1″ and weighs 200 lbs. The Friars also have senior running back/wide receiver Leon Shimizu who attended the first camp as well. Both are from the same village of Merizo and are coached by Bruce Meno who is a fellow resident.
Here is his 10 play highlight over two seasons.
https://twitter.com/_deaundrecruz/status/745788507000471552
