Chicago Mt. Carmel defensive end Anthony Battle had offers from Army, Eastern Michigan and Cincinnati as well, but he just couldn’t pass up the chance to play for head coach Pat Fitzgerald and the Northwestern Wildcats. Battle committed to the Cats last week, becoming part of a nice early haul for Fitzgerald and company.
“I like the academics, because I didn’t want to just play football,” Battle explained, “I also like it because it’s a real family atmosphere. They really care about their players similar to what I’m used to at Mount Carmel. It’s also smaller, there are about 7000-8000 people there so I can get to know the students around campus better.”
Battle says he fell in love with the campus on his first visit, especially the lakefront location. However, the proximity to home did not influence his decision as he said, “Being close to home wasn't an issue, I really liked the school and it just happened to be close to home.”
At 6’3, 230-lbs, defensive end or tight end could be in Battle’s future although he expects to play defense. As a junior, he had 34 tackles (10 for loss) and his athleticism earned him looks from many schools including the four that offered. With that type of interest, one might assume he would take his time and look around, but he knew where he wanted to be.
“Northwestern is a pretty good school and I didn't know if I could do much better than that,” he explained, “I wanted to commit before the season started, so I wouldn't have to worry about anything and just have a carefree season and win state.”
Now that goal is accomplished, Battle is a Wildcat and a weight is lifted off his shoulders.
“It's a big relief, recruiting its hectic and it is nice to be able to relax and have a nice summer.”