Gannon University welcomed its first wave of football recruits last week, opening its doors to 12 incoming student-athletes.
As of Feb. 3, all 12 made the commitment to continue their academic and athletic careers here in Erie. Eleven of the 12 signed National Letters of Intent while one student-athlete was a transfer.
The first 12 recruits are Earl Anderson, Jeremiah Brennin, Mac Chambers, Jamez Coles, Jason Dambach, Jimmy Keefe, Clay McDonald, Tyler Palka, Cal Reynolds, Jordan Smith, Kiley Smith and Isaiah Young.
Gannon coach Brad Rzyczycki said he and his staff are very excited about the group of recruits.
“Our staff was able to find the student-athletes who can play at the next level and contribute on and off the field at Gannon,” Rzyczycki said in a statement published on Gannon’s athletics website.
“The first wave is balanced with seven offensive players and five on the defensive side of the ball. We are pleased with today’s signings and can’t wait to welcome the new members of our family to campus.”
This class will help offset the 18 graduating seniors. Next season’s team will feature 38 letter winners, 13 student-athletes who started at least four games and the roster will feature 11 seniors.
The Knights are scheduled to open the 2016 season against Southern Connecticut State on Saturday, Sept. 3, at McConnell Family Stadium.
Gannon finished last season with a 6-5 record – its third straight winning campaign and 13th in program history.

BRANDON JACES
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