Please Read: Welcome to the new-look Inside the Gators
- Recruit Reaction: The energy in the stadium was electric
- Watch & Read: Lagway feels like he can play better
Over the summer, Douglasville (Ga.) South Paulding High School four-star offensive tackle Tyler Chukuyem committed to Florida over offers from Cincinnati, NC State, and Ole Miss. Since then, the home state Georgia Bulldogs have also extended an offer.
This past weekend, the 6-foot-6, 290-pounder took an unofficial visit to Gainesville to watch No. 15 Florida defeat Long Island. His mother, Stefanie Chukuyem, documented the trip for Inside the Gators. Then shared her thoughts in a post-visit Q&A session.
What was the experience like returning to campus as the family of a committed prospect rather than one who was still being recruited? How was it different?
“We had again an amazing experience. There wasn’t really a difference. We had a great time visiting the game, an amazing time, and a warm welcome from the staff and coaches, just like the first time at his official visit.”
With it being a game weekend, the coaches have to focus on the game, but what was the interaction like with Billy Napier, the position coaches, and the support staff?
“After our pre-game meal, we had the chance, during the Gator Walk, to say a quick hello to the coaches as well as Coach Napier. After the Gator Walk, we went back inside, where all the position coaches came back around to talk to the recruits.”
Obviously, because of the quality of the opponent, the Swamp wasn’t anywhere near what it will be like for an opponent such as Texas coming up. Still, what did you and Tyler think of the atmopshere?
“The atmosphere was amazing. Even though the game was against a smaller opponent, the atmosphere and the energy in the stadium did not disappoint. One of the highlights for me was the third quarter “break” with the song “I won’t back down”! It gave me chills.”
What was the highlight of the visit? Is there anything you think could be improved upon?
“Our experience with UF coaches and staff, from day one, was amazing. I don’t think there is anything I would change.”
Leaving his UF official visit over the summer, Tyler said that it was going to be 50-50 whether he would still consider other programs after he made his pledge public. Since then, Georgia has offered. What is their pursuit like? Will he visit there? Are there any other programs still in contact?
“Georgia is currently the only college that is still pursuing him. There are no dates set for an eventual visit.”
When will you return to Gainesville?
“We are planning on coming back to experience the game against Texas.”
0 comments