Below is an excerpt from the 07/12/02 Sabremail.
The Cavaliers received an injection of speed and elusiveness at the running back position last year with the signing of Heritage back Michael Johnson. What the Cavs don’t have on the squad is that bruising, change-of-pace back needed to get the tough yards in the trenches. Hoping to have the opportunity to be that needed big back is James Terry , who committed to Virginia last week.
“I think I could be a good change of pace guy at Virginia,” said Terry of the UVA running back situation. “My strength is that I run hard. I am powerful and tough to knock to the ground.”
It appears the UVA staff is recruiting Terry as a running back, although he could certainly grow into a fullback or be used as linebacker. Running back, however, is the position Terry loves to play.
“I like running back the best,” said Terry, who stands at 6’2″ 225 pounds. “It is just better than the other positions.”
Virginia and Pitt were the only schools to offer Terry in the early going. Other schools such as Virginia Tech and Clemson were extremely interested as well, but in the end, Terry just felt committing early to the Cavs was the best thing to do.
“I felt like it [Virginia] was the best choice for me,” said Terry. “I didn’t think it was going to get any better. I like the coaching staff and what they can teach me. Their NFL experience was a big factor for me.”
“Academics is the most important thing. I know I will get a good education at Virginia …I want to major in Architecture. Plus, the campus atmosphere was very welcoming.”
Last season, Terry rushed for 700 yards and 10 touchdowns for Woodbridge High School in Lake Ridge, VA. He missed four games due to an ankle injury, however, and hopes to be able to return to form by the beginning of his senior season.
“My ankle is better now,” said Terry. “It is not 100% as of yet, but it will be. I have started my strength and physical training for the summer.”
In addition to getting healthier, bigger, and faster, Terry is concentrating on two very important goals he has set for himself in the fall.
“I want to take our team to districts,” said Terry of his senior goals. “Personally, I want to rush for over 1500 yards.”
James Terry was the fifth commitment for the Cavaliers this young recruiting season. The Cavaliers received their sixth commitment of the season when Western Pennsylvania quarterback Kevin McCabe committed to the Hoos yesterday
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