Led by senior quarterback Joseph “Ju-Ju” Clayton, the Hermitage Panthers (Richmond, VA) enjoyed an outstanding 2007 season, capturing a Division 6, Central Region championship. Clayton’s performance certainly helped Hermitage to great accomplishments, but it also has resulted in a scholarship offer from Virginia Tech.

“He did a great job in the playoffs and his rep grew,” Hermitage head coach Patrick Kane said of Clayton, a 6-2, 205-pound prospect. “Virginia Tech was eyeing several guys. They liked what they saw out of him and decided that he was their guy.”

Clayton, who finished with a career completion percentage of over 60-percent, completed 153 of 255 passes for 2,117 yards with 22 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 2007. He also rushed for 274 yards and five scores. For his performance, he earned Colonial District and Central Region Offensive Player of the Year honors.

“I would say his pocket presence stands out,” Kane said. “He can move in the pocket and still keep his eyes down field. Some high school quarterbacks panic and either throw a bad ball or they run, but he keeps his eyes down the field and he makes plays.

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