The starting quarterback spot is up for grabs at UConn with spring practices underway. Just as I plead transfer Bryant Shirreffs chances of being named the starter, a new face has emerged in the battle as Bob Diaco and his staff have brought on a Juco commit to make the contest even more competitive.
Garrett Anderson, a 6-foot, 215 pound quarterback who last played at Laney Junior College in Oakland, California committed to UConn on Sunday, a day after attending the first spring practice of the year.
Anderson had a trip to visit Colorado State planned after his stay in Connecticut, but canceled it after UConn won him over.
After his commitment became official, Anderson was able to answer a few of my questions about his journey to UConn and what lies ahead for the newest Husky.
Q: What ultimately made your decision to come to UConn?
“When I visited it went perfect. Every aspect of the school and program was attractive to me. It wasn’t really one thing, it was everything as a whole. It’s pretty hard to find a place with as great an education coupled with a great football program that is on the rise.”
Q: What kind of vibe did you get from watching the first spring practice? Did any coaches or players help make your decision easier?
“I loved the intensity of the first practice and the way practices were run. Both the coaches and the players made the decision easy. Coach Diaco and his staff have created a family atmosphere in the locker room. The players treated me as a teammate the moment I stepped on campus rather than an outsider.”
Q: Can you describe your playing style as a quarterback and as a leader?
“I believe leadership is the most important thing. I’m the type of guy who is an encourager and someone who leads by being the hardest worker in everything I do. I rarely scream and yell at guys. Lack of effort is the only thing that really causes me to be that kind of guy. As a QB, I am a passer first, but I can definitely make plays with my feet. I’m a competitor and I hate to lose!”
Q: What do you hope to contribute to the program within your time in Connecticut? Is there anything you would specifically like to accomplish?
“Most importantly I’m going to be a guy who is a leader and somebody who will not let anyone outwork me. I believe that’s most important. As a team we need to win the American Conference Championship.”
Q: Going from the west coast to the east coast will be quite the transition. What are you most excited for coming to the northeast and what are some possible obstacles you’ll have to overcome with the move?
“I’m really excited to experience something new, it’ll be fun. No obstacles come to mind, but I’m sure there will be some, that’s life.”
Q: Finally, is there anything you would like to say to the Husky fan base?
“They just need to know Husky football is on the rise and I’m excited to be apart of it!”
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
