- Richard Benjamin, Middleton, ATH, 2013
Every prep football player can improve. But realizing where he can improve, before it is too late, is key! Richard Benjamin is the owner of nearly 30 verbal scholarship offers. However, those 30 offers did not win him or his team a single game in 2011.
Over the last 3 seasons, Benjamin has played for 3 different head coaches, along with 3 different offensive and defensive coordinators. He has played 3 different offensive positions and just as many on defense. Athleticism and talent has never been an issue for the 2013 Middleton prospect, yet stability, work ethic and discipline. I spoke with Benjamin and asked what he learned from this 2011 winless season. “I have to practice harder and dedicate myself to become the best player I can. I have to have a tougher mindset going into the offseason with a goal to improve every part of my game.”
It’s no longer a game of saying the right things for Benjamin, but doing them. After a breakout 2010 season that produced a highlight film which attracted suitors such as Miami, Florida State and Southern California wanting Benjamin’s talents, the winless 2011 season was not a total disappointment. “As a team, we didn’t reach any of our goals, but I think I did ok individually.” The 6-1/180lbs ATH totaled over 1000 all-purpose yards and played much of the game on defense also. “ I learned a lot and played well throughout the year,” said Benjamin.
The reality is, Richard Benjamin is one of the most talented prospects in the 2013 Tampa Bay recruiting class. He is fast, he is super athletic and he is bright enough to realize he can get better. The light may have turned on for the Middleton Tiger. The light, which revealed his talent alone cannot win him games. But his work ethic and dedication can set an example for the rest of his team, which can be a direct effect on the win/loss record for 2012.
Before the 2012 football season hits, the 2012 showcase season will be in full swing within the next few weeks. Benjamin says he will be attending the Under Armour Combine on December 30th and 31st and then will hit the 2012 BCP Ignite Showcase on February 11th. He also says he plans on taking a few spring college unofficial visits to Miami, Florida, Florida State and at least 1 out of state university. He plans on attending summer camps for those same schools.
Currently, Benjamin lists the following schools as the ones he has the most interest in (in no order): Florida, Miami, Vanderbilt, South Florida, Florida State, Ohio State, Southern California and Notre Dame.