Sep 15, 2012; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers pioneer mascot flag bearer waves the flag during the Vol Walk outside Neyland Stadium prior to the game against the Florida Gators. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
It is only March with a few months to go before the 2013 season starts for the Vols, but Butch Jones and the coaching staff are on the grind getting commitments for the 2014 class. The Volunteers have received six verbal commitments so far and are expecting more soon. Victor Wharton III was the first to give his commitment to Tennessee, back on December 25, 2012, over three months ago. After Wharton gave his word that he will be playing for the Vols he has been on the prowl scouting and talking to other recruits about coming to Tennessee.
Wharton is a 4-star cornerback (Rivals) out of Nashville, TN standing 6’1″ and weighing in at 172 lbs. After talking with Wharton I knew immediately this kid has the right attitude and passion to be a Volunteer. Although he still has his senior year to get through at Independence High School, he is anxious to suit up in the orange and white and play on Saturdays. Wharton has been a guy that can connect with his peers and has been spreading the word about Tennessee. I was fortunate enough to talk with him in between the time of his busy schedule for a few questions , here’s what he had to say.
Jonah: What made you decide to commit so early?
Wharton: Butch Jones! I had a favorite staff, a favorite school and favorite conference. When the three got together it was a no brainer, and my plan was to do it early so I can get started on recruiting and bringing a national championship back to Knoxville.
Jonah: What attracted you to Tennessee over other schools?
Wharton: I grew up in Knoxville, My uncle is a Vol for Life, I can remember Daniel Hood standing in my little league huddle when I was 9 years old saying “Tennessee is the only place that I will play football”. Not to mention the countless number of current Vols that played with me in high school Kyler Kerbyson, ran track with me since I was seven years old, Devrin Young And most most most importantly the fans. You absolutely can not beat Tennessee fans.
Jonah: What coach from Tennessee reached out to you first?
Wharton: Well I already had established a relationship with Mark Elder while he was at Cincinnati and that developed into me getting to know the entire staff. I found myself entertaining the fact of possibly playing at Cincinnati, but was just unsure of Butch Jones future at Cincinnati. So I prayed about it and now here we are today.
Jonah: Even though you have committed to Tennessee are other schools still trying to contact you? If so which school has the most?
Wharton: Yes I’m still being contacted by Notre Dame, Georgia, Florida, Nebraska, Louisville, UCLA has just started, Ole Miss, Miss St, Auburn, Wisconsin, Michigan St and Miami. Constant contact would be Georgia, Miami, Ole Miss, Louisville, and Notre Dame in that order. I must say Vanderbilt came to a screeching halt on 12/25/12. (laughter from Wharton)
Jonah: How many recruits do you talk to daily about coming to Tennessee?
Wharton: I talk to about five to six prospects a day, more than likely a high target.
Jonah: What do you pitch to other recruits when you are talking to them about coming to Tennessee?
Wharton: I pitch great education and fantastic facilities. An unbelievable fan base and the traditional warmth and family atmosphere with Butch Jones and the Tennessee staff. I tell them how we all can be the beginning of a great contribution to the rise to the top. If I can get them to campus I can promise you I can transfer my passion. If a prospect comes to Knoxville and fails to see what is so special, I mean to sing Rocky Top while actually seeing the Smokies in the background right before running through the “T”……Then you probably don’t belong here anyway. And if you don’t believe me, just ask Peyton!!!
Jonah: If you were asked to describe Butch Jones using three words, what would you say?
Wharton: Persistent, Consistent, and Patience.
2014 Tennessee Volunteers Recruiting
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