Steve Spiewak
MaxPreps.com
Many young boys all across the country have grown up watching the movie "Rudy," hoping that some day, they might get the chance to don the Blue and Gold and play for Notre Dame's storied football program.
Lemont, Ill., linebacker Aaron Nagel knows that dreams can one day be reality.
"Since I was a kid, I wanted to go to Notre Dame," Nagel said. "My whole family is big Notre Dame fans, and we used to watch the games on TV. When I got offered a scholarship there, it was like a dream come true."
Nagel patrolled the secondary on defense at the free safety spot through most of his high school career, but has made a move to outside linebacker after Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis sold him on his potential at that position.
"The big difference now is that I'm not doing as much pass coverage. I get to stay in and take care of the run," Nagel said. "Also, I get to lay the big hit."
Nagel's registered plenty of big hits thus far this season, leading Lemont to a 4-2 record while playing both sides of the ball, doubling as the team's running back. After a slow start, the team has been playing better with a big game against Oak Forest looming on the horizon.
Amid such excitement about his Notre Dame future, Nagel is not overlooking his senior season, and remains very focused. He credits this to his early commitment, which has allowed him circumvent much of the buzz that surrounds many of the state's top uncommitted recruits.
Like many other Notre Dame targets, Nagel was in South Bend for the pummeling the Fighting Irish received at the hands of the Michigan Wolverines. However, he was not completely discouraged.
"The Michigan game was very disappointing, and I didn't expect it. But I'm still excited to watch the rest of the season, especially the USC game," he said.
Nagel has been keeping tabs on other local standouts considering Notre Dame. He has spoken with Martez Wilson from Simeon High School, as well as Robert Hughes from Hubbard. Neither player has committed to Notre Dame yet, but both seem to be still considering the Fighting Irish.
Outside of Illinois, Notre Dame has already landed other high profile recruits, including three from New Jersey: defensive end Justin Trattou (Don Bosco Prep), wide receiver Duval Kamara (Hoboken), and tight end Mike Ragone (Camden Catholic). Nagel is not a stranger to any of them.
"I see them at games, and talk to some of them," Nagel said.
Certainly, Notre Dame fans have a great deal to be excited about, while Illinois high school fans have a great deal to be proud of. Aaron Nagel will live out his dream next fall at Notre Dame, with the eyes of Lemont, Ill., and South Bend, Ind., keeping careful watch.