Turning our attention now to some of the lesser known kids in contention for collegiate interest we focus on Vancouver, Washington where a number of studs are battling it out to get their names known. Nathan Hawthorne is one of those athletes. The 5’9″ 185 lb. Defensive Back and Slot Back is one of those special kids that can play both ways and be a threat both ways.
Nathan Hawthorne is a multi-sport athlete who has risen to the top of the ranks for football and basketball.
Nathan plays for Columbia River and his name is well known on the football field and the hardwood. He was named the Player of the Year on the basketball court. That followed his selection as Defensive Player of the Year for Football; he turned in 67 tackles and was almost impossible to throw at breaking up play after play! His work as a Slot Back was productive too with 38 catches for 482 yards and he has excellent ability to block on that edge; something crucial to be successful at the position.
Watching his film we are taken with the speed the kid can showcase. Once he breaks open is he is hard to catch. Overall he is one of the fastest athletes in the 2015 Class and speed is by far the #1 asset any student athlete can showcase. Nathan reports a 4.43 and a 4.47 40 time being run recently and a has a 4.017 pro agility shuttle which is also at the very top end of the spectrum.
Here are some answers to questions we had for Nathan:
What accomplishments did you have last season?
“Last year I had 38 receptions for 482 yards. On defense I had 67 tackles on the way to being names Defensive Player of the Year. Also I was named first team all league slot back, first team defense, special teams player of the year and all region special teams player of the year. In basketball I was also named player of the year by the league.
What Goals do you have for this year and how are your grades?
“Team goals: get past the round of 16 and play for the state title. Play with a swagger we have lacked the last few years and ultimately go on a great senior journey with these guys. Personal: Take Offensive Player of the Year. Positively lead the team as they trust me more than any group of guys. Receive a Division 1 college scholarship and get college paid for. I have a 3.5 cumulative and will be higher with adjustment because I am in the IB program.
What are your top strengths as an athlete and where can you improve this season?
“I have he ability to break down and make open field tackles and shut down one side of the field. My ability to adjust my body and my awareness to approaching defenders while I’m catching the ball. I am an extension of the coach on the field with a high IQ and understand where everyone should be. To improve: My overall speed which is my current work. I will increase my foot speed as a defensive back and constantly improving my perimeter blocking
What about recruiting? Are things heating up in that category yet?
“I’ve had some. Linfield, Puget Sound, and University of California Redlands have all expressed extreme interest in having me. Redlands will visit after the season. Cody Kempt at Montana State is looking at me for defense and Bruce Barnum from PSU is recruiting me for offense. I received a letter from Army inviting me to watch a home game for an unofficial visit. Coach Sheldon Cross from Idaho State has made it a “must attend” game when they play Portland State.
Nathan in our view can play with the best players out there. One thing we have not seen is much press on him yet so we wanted to credit all he has done.
