Heart beats faster for Hackenberg at Clemson

Clemson head coach Monte Lee got some great news on Friday night when one of the top 2018 prospects in the Mid-Atlantic, Adam Hackenberg, gave a verbal commitment to the Tigers.

“I was out with my two brothers and my dad. We were playing golf. We got a hold of Coach Lee, who was watching a game down in Georgia. I gave him the news and he was excited,” Hackenberg told The Clemson Insider.

Why did Hackenberg decide to go ahead and commit to the Tigers?

“It was a good fit. I was there last week playing in a tournament. I got the opportunity to visit afterwards. I loved it. They went up on my list immediately. Clemson offered last week,” Hackenberg said.

A second visit sealed the deal for Hackenberg and his family.

“I came down again on Wednesday for a more formal visit. I got to see the whole campus and meet with the academic people to see that side,” he said. “Academics are important to me. It was a great fit. I loved the place. My heart was beating hard when I was there. I just had that feeling.”

Hackenberg’s older brother Christian was just drafted by the New York Jets in the second round.

“My brother played quarterback at Penn State and is now with the Jets. My other brother played soccer at Penn State. Everyone thought I was destined to go to Penn State,” said Hackenburg.

How did Christian think about his brother’s commit to the Tigers?

“He was like, ‘It is awesome.’ He told me he can’t wait to come watch me play and go fishing at Clemson. They are all excited for me,” Hackenberg said.

Clemson recruited Hackenberg as a catcher, but he could also help elsewhere if needed.

“I am committed as a primary catcher. I can move any where up and down the right side of the field,” he said. “If they need me at first I can play first. If they need me at right I can play there. The coaches liked my athleticism.”

TCI’s Clemson preseason magazine is now available.  Order your copy of Unfinished Business – An Insider Look at Clemson’s 2016 season today.

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