Edison (Alexandria, VA) wide receiver Ben Barber has made unofficial visits to Maryland, Penn State, Virginia and Virginia Tech this offseason. He certainly has been thinking about recruiting, but for now he is giving most of his attention to his team and his senior season. After finishing as the runner-up in the AAA Division 5 state playoffs last season, Barber and his teammates put in a tremendous amount of work in preparing for this season.

“Last year’s finish as the state runner-up has really motivated our team,” Barber said. “This past offseason we’ve had the biggest turn out in the weight room in many years. That kind of commitment is the first of many steps to a state championship.”

Barber, who says he now stands at 6-0 and weighs 202 pounds, worked hard to improve his strength and speed. In the process, he has taken more of a leadership role as well.

“This past offseason was the most productive for me in my high school career,” said Barber, who tallied 54 receptions for 1,034 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2006. “I was in the weight room almost every day lifting weights and running routes to perfect my technique and get into good shape for this year. I’ve improved my 40 time and increased my bench and squat max and I’m becoming more of a vocal leader.”

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