What does the 2006 1st Team All-Western
State Conference selection think about his seemingly easy transition from high
school to junior college ball?
"I am just an all around better player
now," added Grant Valentine. "We moved into a harder conference this
season so I am excited to see if I can take it to the next level."
Glendale's
fall camp has started and this 4 Star DE has noticed a difference.
"I
am just a whole lot stronger now. I have put on some weight and have just fine
tuned my body. I have been running with the RB's during the conditioning drills."
Grant's
speed is his forte as he reports a 4.5 forty. In fact, in high school Valentine
stared at a skilled position.
"I was a running back also in high school."
Which
colleges are actively pursuing the former Helix High standout?
"Oregon,
I got an offer from Ole Miss, Kansas State, Oregon State, Washington, Arizona,
just basically everybody in the PAC 10."
Valentine recently lined
up his first official visit with the Rebels.
"I knew Coach Neilsen
(OM assistant) when he was at USC. I am taking an official visit to Ole Miss on
October 6th. That is our bye week. We have been keeping a good relationship with
their staff. That will be my first trip, but I am not going to commit anywhere
until I have taken all five of my trips. Ole Miss wants me as a defensive end,
but Kansas State wants me at OLB."
What does Grant prefer; DE or OLB?
"Really,
I like DE, but when you are putting your hand down, sometimes they run the other
way so it take you out of the play. If you are at OLB, you can have the freedom
to get to the ball carrier easier. But I love to rush the passer too. I can go
either way, really."
Has Kansas State offered?
"No, but
they are right there. They are waiting for my second session summer school courses.
Our finals are next Friday. I am about to ace it. I think they are the next school
that is about to offer."
Who else is coming after Valentine hard?
"Kansas
State is up there. Oregon, I have talked to them a few times. I like Oregon a
lot too. Everyone is waiting to see how I do this year. Like I said, we are moving
to a tougher conference. We will play a lot harder teams this year. They want
to see how I pan out this year."