Eric Ball committed to Rice way back in April of 2007. Many months have passed, but Ball remains firmly committed to playing football at Rice University. He brings solid technique and a great attitude to Rice. His high school coach Gary Joseph has given Ball words to live by, “Coach Joseph told me I am leaving this place that is used to winning and expected to win every game, and that I should take that mindset with me to the next level.” Katy won the 5A State Championship this season going wire to wire undefeated. Ball hopes to enjoy that same feeling at Rice. "I think the program is going to do great things. I'm just real excited to get on campus and become a part of the program."
I visited with Eric on Tuesday night and during our conversation asked him about his future at Rice.
Where do you stand with your commitment to Rice?
"I'm solid to Rice. The other schools quit calling a long time ago because I told them I was defintely going to Rice."
What do you think is your strongest asset as a lineman?
"I think my understanding of the game is probably my best asset. I think my technique is pretty solid too, but I'll have a lot to learn when I get to college."
So you'll be comfortable making line calls when you get to the next level at Rice?
"I think so. As long as I understand the offense well I'll be able to make the line calls."
When do you plan on coming to campus?
"I think almost all of us will be there between June 10th and 14th."
Have you thought about who you'll room with?
"Yeah John Gioffre and I have talked about rooming together. He's taking his official this weekend too."
What do you plan on majoring in?
"Probably Architecture or Engineering."
One thing Rice won't have to worry about with Eric is strength. Though he's about 260 pounds right now he's got some impressive weight room numbers already:
Bench Press: 350 pounds
Squat: 470 pounds
Power Clean: 320 pounds
Speaking of his future roommate John Gioffre had this to say about Ball, "He's probably the best offensive lineman I played against all year. He's got incredible quickness for his size. He's strong and has great technique - I think he'll be a great lineman in college."
Ball chose Rice over interest from Northwestern, Oklahoma State, Purdue, and Louisiana Tech. He was recruited by Coach Craig Naivar. He joins current Owl WR Michael Fuda as former Katy Tigers on the Rice Football team.
National Signing Day is February 6th...