Eureka 2018 offensive lineman Brendan Schlitter saw his recruitment take off during the spring and early summer after a strong junior season in which he was named All-Suburban West.
At 6’5, 280-pounds, Schlitter has the size college programs are looking for and prides himself on being a high character prospect. On Aug. 10 he committed to Holy Cross, choosing the school over offers from Illinois State, Indiana State, Southeast Missouri State, Murray State, UT-Martin, Northern Colorado and Lindenwood.
“I try to make a good first impression by showing the coach eye contact and showing off my size,” he says. “I try to show off my feet and my power. It is important to launch some kids so I try to pancake and show good technique as well.”
Schlitter has developed into a leader for Eureka and is often the first player at workouts and the last to leave. He says he takes pride in giving the his quarterback the confidence he needs to stand tall in the pocket and avoid the rush.
“My play allows my quarterback to feel comfortable,” Schlitter said. “Im the person everyone asks their questions to. When something is wrong, my coach comes to me. I’m the overall leader of the team.”
A year ago, Eureka went 10-2 overall and went down in defeat to eventual state champion Kirkwood in the semifinals.
“Our team put up a good fight, but couldn’t do much as Kirkwood was so loaded,” Schlitter said. “I played average in that game and should have performed better.”
This year, Eureka has high expectations as the Wildcats return 16 starters and return, among others, Hassan Haskins, one of the St. Louis area’s premier skill position players. Haskins rushed for 1,500 yards and 19 touchdowns last year.
Schlitter began playing football in fourth-grade through a feeder program and says his freshman coach has had the biggest influence on his football career, pushing him hard and eventually helping him turn his career around.
He has spent much of the offseason working on his strike and knocking guys over — using his size to his advantage.
