By Jalesia Duran

On July 20, 2009 our very own quarterback Jesse Scroggins attended EA SPORTS Elite 11 Quarterback Camp at Soka University in Aliso Viejo where he made his college commitment to USC.  The Elite 11 camp included 12 out of this year’s Elite 11 quarterbacks plus the six college counselors.  Former USC quarterbacks Carson Palmer, now with the Cincinnati Bengals, and Mark Sanchez with the New York Jets were at the camp to offer valuable insights to these promising young quarterbacks.

Their first workout was held on Monday night followed by two-hour morning sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  At the camp they went over basic training, discussed the strengths and weaknesses of defense, formations, and new coverages.  “Concentration and understanding different people’s perspectives” was what Jesse Scroggins brought back to the Lakewood playing field.

The list of six college counselors this year was led by leading Heisman Trophy candidate Colt McCoy of the University of Texas.  Other counselors participating in this year’s camp were Zac Robinson of Oklahoma State, Cody Hawkins of Colorado, Daryl Clark of Penn State, Juice Williams of Illinois and former Missouri star Chase Daniel.

Scroggins was a key reason his Lakewood team made a successful run in last year’s CIF Southern Section Pac-Five Division playoffs.  His season statistics were impressive with 2,462 yards and 23 TDs; two rushing scores.  This season, his outlook is even brighter as he is currently ranked number one in the nation.

Palmer and Sanchez advised Scroggins to go for what he believes in and to be prepared for a faster game.  Scroggins stated, “Overall the camp was a success, not only for myself but for the counselors and also the other players, I say that in a meaningful way. We each bonded, taught, and shared our prior knowledge and gained more knowledge.  I had a great experience at the quarterback camp.  I learned some valuable lessons from many extremely successful players and coaches and was able to practice under a college atmosphere.  I mean, how many high school players get the opportunity to learn from successful NFL quarterbacks like Palmer and now Sanchez.  I’m truly blessed.  This is a great experience for young football players”.

The lessons he learned will help him become a stronger leader and prepare him for another successful season at Lakewood High School.