The best part of our job is being able to build relationships with quality people. Prior to Joey’s commitment to Stanford, we were able to speak with the standout Jesuit LB on all of the relevant info pertaining to his decision.
The Alfieri’s have been big supporters, and all of us at NEI and Barton Football couldn’t be happier for the in state talent. Joey epitomizes what a student athlete should strive to be, and we look forward to watching him play on Saturday’s and Sunday’s for years to come.
Jordan Johnson – “What were the major factors in choosing the school that you did? Academics, family, location… etc.”
Joey Alfieri – “I looked at a lot of different factors in making my decision… Academics was extremely important to me, as well as my relationship with the coaching staff and how I felt around them. I wanted coaches who have a lot of experience coaching at the division 1 level, and know how to develop athletes into reaching their full potential. Some schools had better recruiting than others, but I couldn’t base my decision on just one factor… For example, Peter Sirmon, Justin Wilcox, and Steve Sarkisian did a phenomenal job of recruiting me. They were all extremely good guys who kept in constant contact with me, and really developed personal relationships with not just myself but also my parents and siblings.. That said at the end of the day I had to look at the big picture, and Stanford was just an overall better fit athletically and academically.”
Jordan Johnson – “Do you see yourself playing right away and if so do they have a specific backer spot or position that they see you at?”
Joey Alfieri – “Stanford plays a lot of true freshman. I met Blake Martinez, who is going to be a sophomore this season, and he told me he got a lot of playing time on special teams and at linebacker… It is hard to predict how I will do next year, but I think if I stay focused and work hard every day I will earn a chance to play early.”
Jordan Johnson – “Describe the recruiting process, and all of the craziness? Has it been an enjoyable experience? What has it been like going through this with Henry Mondeaux?”
Joey Alfieri – “The recruiting process has been good and bad. I have enjoyed getting attention from some of the top schools in the nation and learned a lot about multiple programs, but it’s tough being pulled in so many different directions by coaches from other schools. I would say that I am relieved to get the process over with and ready to dedicate myself to my senior season. It has been a tremendous help getting to go through this process with Henry Mondeaux… Having someone to talk to about these things that only recruits would understand has been great, as he is one of my closest friends.”
Jordan Johnson – “I know you want to win a state title this year…. What are you guys doing to do to beat Southridge? Make up for the loss of 4 D1 lineman? Will you be the primary ball carrier? Spilt with Chase?”
Joey Alfieri – “In order to win state we cannot take any plays off this year… Guys like myself, Henry Mondeaux, Christian Martinek, and Trent Werner have to set good examples for the younger guys, and go hard in practice and even harder during the games… If we take the season week by week and make sure we do not overlook any teams, I believe we have a solid chance at winning the state championship. After losing in the semi’s four years in a row, we have a lot of motivation built up this year to finally bring home another state championship for Jesuit… I will be starting at fullback and getting some time carrying the ball like I did last year. Chase Morrison will be our primary ball carrier and I have a ton of confidence in him. He had a phenomenal 2012 season and is looking ten times better this year.”
Jordan Johnson – “What are some other goals you have set out for yourself? HS, College, Pro, Life?”
Joey Alfieri – “One of my main goals is to get the best education I possibly can in order to prepare myself for the rest of my life, and Stanford offers that and more. I also want to play on a highly ranked team that competes for a national championship. If everything plays out right I hope to play in the National Football League someday, but overall I don’t want to be known as just a football player.. Stanford offers me the opportunity to be more than just an athlete, and be seen as a complete and balanced individual.”
