Roland racked up over 1,000 yards receiving in his senior year.By: Sam Davis
The best high school football player in the state of South Carolina is officially a Gamecock.
Top-rated recruit Shaq Roland, of Lexington High School, signed his letter of intent Wednesday. Roland says he chose the Gamecocks because of their success in recent years and their potential in the very near future.
"They're just a team on the rise," Roland said. "Next year they could do great things and I just wanted to be a part of that."
Roland played wide receiver during his senior year, but coaches say he can make an impact from anywhere on the field.
"He's one of those kids that can score from anywhere on the field and you don't find those, they're very unique," Lexington football coach Scot Early said. "I was glad that he played here and coach Spurrier is going to be glad that he plays there."
The Gamecocks are hoping the budding star can help fill the void left by former Gamecock Alshon Jeffery, who declared for the draft at the end of last season.
Roland is also the star of Lexington High School's basketball team, but he said yesterday that football is his focus.
Even with all the attention and accolades, the 19-year-old says he's able to maintain his focus.
"I don't pay attention to it a lot," Roland said. "People may think there is a lot of pressure on me, but I just really try to focus on what I need to do."
