High school football combine coming to area

Groups of high school football players from across the region will be taking the field June 26 at St. John-Evangelist High School in Plaquemine to participate in a pro-style combine that will push their abilities for an opportunity to play at the next level.

Just like the college counterpart preparing for the NFL Draft, high school athletes will gather to showcase their talents, discover where they stand among their recruiting class, gain official measurements and maybe even get the attention of college scouts.

“Unless they’re a high level prospect it’s hard to draw the attention of recruiters. Not anymore,” said Jerren Pierce, a former Southeastern Louisiana University wide receiver and founder of Just Maximizing Potential, a speed, conditioning and strength training company based in Louisiana.

Just Maximizing Potential will host the combine. The comprehensive event will test and record each participant’s abilities through a series of specific pro-style drills and tests; the results will then be officially certified for NCAA use and sent to colleges across the country.

Football players registering for the combine will be tested in areas crucial to college recruitment. The half-day event will consist of the 40-yard dash, Pro Agility Shuttle, Broad Jump, Vertical Jump, Bench Press and 1-on-1 Drills. With these measurements on file college scouts can track down any talented player and get them on the road to stardom.

Interested high school athletes can register online at www.JustMP.com or can choose the walk-up option. Team discounts are also available. Combine registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with all events starting at 9 a.m. and running until 2 p.m.