In a time of social distancing and limited travel, the recruiting world is slightly different these days for high school football players. Many have had to pivot and change their approach to get looks by top universities. But for Steven Ortiz Jr., that’s all behind him. The dilemma on where he would play college ball ended six months ago. That’s when Ortiz gave a strong commitment to P.J Fleck and the Minnesota Gophers.
How it happened
The 4-star recruit Defensive Back from Desert Edge high school out of Goodyear, AZ is one talented and highly decorated Arizona football player. According to 247 sports, he is rated the No.6 prospect in the state of Arizona. As a Junior on the Scorpions defense, Ortiz was second on the team in tackles (83), 1 interception, and 2 forced fumbles. With his stellar play on the gridiron, Ortiz was named First-team All-state, and All-District.
His skills on the football field have earned him exactly twenty-three football scholarships. Offers coming in from major conferences like the Big East, Pac 12, & SEC.
Stepping up to the position
I recently had the chance to catch up with Steven Ortiz after practice. “For me to commit I want the communication on top and Minnesota hit a home run. And they’ve been communicating with me ever since, every morning facetime trying their best to get me.”
〽️Y WAY. 🇵🇷💯🇵🇷 pic.twitter.com/VAccPAPDMx
— Steven Ortiz Jr (@1stevenortizjr) April 10, 2020
As we talked, he elaborated on his style of play as “Being a Dog, and the smartest guy on the field, being grimy and ready to work.” Being listed as 5-11 175 pounds Steven brings his all every Friday night and makes sure his opponent knows that he’s arrived. “If you’re not on my team I’m headhunting you.” He didn’t shy away from the praise of that great defensive line at Desert Edge.
With the conversation from the high-powered recruit coming to an end, we played a game of PICK 6. It’s similar to the game called “This or That” where the individual gets six questions and they pick their preference of the two options.
Steven’s PICK 6:
- Chick-fil-A or In N Out = Chick-fil-A
- Nike or Adidas = Nike
- Lebron James or Michael Jordan = Michael Jordan
- Hot or Cold = Cold
- Pick 6 or Big Hit = Big Hit
- Texans or Chiefs = Chiefs
Steven and the rest of the Desert Edge Scorpions continue to put up big numbers each week in the 5A West I Conference.
