California WR has sights set on Northwestern

So far, Northwestern’s Class of 2017 is made up of three defensive linemen, three safeties, two linebackers, two offensive linemen and a quarterback, a superback and a cornerback. By far the biggest remaining need is wide receiver.

It’s no secret that the Wildcats have struggled at the wide receiver position the last couple years. Coaches recently offered a three-star California wideout that they think can address that shortcoming.

Berkeley Holman of Bellflower St. John Bosco said he was “super excited” to pick up an offer from Northwestern in late April. Not surprisingly for a player with the first name of Berkeley, Holman says he is attracted by the school’s academics, as well as its membership in the Big Ten.

“It’s a great school and they’re a great program,” said Holman, who carries a 3.7 GPA. “I’m looking for a school that has great academics, like Northwestern and the Ivy Leagues, and who also plays at the high level. The Big Ten is a great league and I think that could be a great place for me.”

Northwestern is recruiting the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder as a slot receiver. He plays both in the slot and outside receiver spots at Bosco, but knows his future is on the inside at the next level. “I’m not 6-2,” he says.

But Holman makes up for a lack of height with his playmaking ability.

“I’m good with the ball in my hands. I make things happen,” said Holman. “I can make a catch and then make plays. I can high-point and go up and get the ball, even though I’m not tall. I also play special teams and take a lot of pride in that.”

Holman caught 31 passes for 550 yards and six touchdowns in helping Bosco to a 13-1 record and runner-up finish in the CIF southern sectional. He contributed two punt-return touchdowns on special teams.

He also runs track for Bosco and has a personal best of 11.18 in the 100 meters.

Holman has thus far attracted 15 offers, ranging from the Ivies, ACC, Pac-12, Mountain and, now, Big Ten. He is planning to visit Northwestern in mid-June, shortly after taking the ACT on June 11. He’ll hit Evanston on his way back from the East Coast, where he will visit the Ivy League schools on his list. He will then hit the West Coast schools that have offered, including Boise State, Oregon State and Utah.

Besides academics and the Big Ten, Holman says another thing that stands out about Northwestern is the longevity of the coaching staff under head coach Pat Fitzgerald.

“Coach Fitz has been there a long time and he played there,” said Holman. “I know he’s there to stay. That’s important for a player, to have a stable environment.”

Holman is aiming to make a verbal commitment over the summer. After losing the title game to Corona Centennial in 2015, he wants to win one more game as a senior.

“I’m focused on getting that ring with my teammates,” he said.