The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly is sponsored by Bryson Financial.
The562’s coverage of football in 2024-25 is sponsored by The Terry Donahue Memorial California Showcase.
As they’ve done in previous years, Long Beach Poly hosted their college showcase on Tuesday afternoon with Mayfair, Dorsey and Cerritos.
Along with giving their athletes an opportunity to get some work in against different teams, the event also allowed college recruiters to scout the athletes in attendance.
“This was a great event,” Poly coach Justin Utupo said. “We brought the community by, but more importantly – this was for the kids. Sometimes it’s not just for your kids. We’re looking out for everyone in the area. We want everyone to have a platform to showcase their skills.”
Before getting into 1-on-1 and 7-on-7 action, the athletes warmed up with some drill work while college recruiters watched from the sideline.
Along with Desean Jackson, Poly alum and Delaware State head coach, there were representatives from UC Davis, Sacramento State, San Diego State, University of San Diego, San Jose State, Arizona State, Cal Poly Pomona, Northern Arizona University, Oregon State, Montana State, Southern Utah, Brigham Young, Southern Methodist, Texas A&M, Utah Tech, Oklahoma and Colorado.
While the skills positions went head up in their competition, the lineman had a chance to showcase their skills in some drills on the other side of the field.
After their drills, Poly’s Anthony Rodriguez got an offer from UC Davis – his first offer to play football in college.
“Before today I was excited because we get to perform in front of colleges,” Rodriguez said. “But to actually get an offer from UC Davis was crazy.”
“It’s a testament to him and his hard work and he’s earned it,” Utupo said.
