By Tyler Stepanian and Randolph Campbell

Booker during his Sophomore year at Collegiate. Photo credit: LJ Booker.

LJ Booker (’24), a standout varsity football wide receiver with multiple Division I offers, has returned to Collegiate after spending three months at Varina High School this past fall. Prior to Booker’s brief foray to Varina, he had a strong sophomore year for Collegiate, earning second-team All-State honors along with All-Prep honors. After this impressive season at Collegiate, he earned offers from the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Duke, Penn State, and Old Dominion University. After his fall season at Varina, he earned additional offers from Boston College, Liberty University, U. Conn., Norfolk State, and Rutgers. 

When the news came out about Booker’s return to Collegiate, many were surprised by his sudden change of heart. However, his return has created a buzz surrounding Collegiate football and the athletic program in general. Booker says he is, “very excited for this fall because of the talent we have on the offensive side of the ball.” He feels the program is headed in the right direction, now being led by Coach Collin McConaghy, the associate head coach under former head coach (and current Upper School Dean of Students) Mark Palyo, and longtime defensive coordinator. Booker is excited about the focus the team already has and is confident that Collegiate football will return to its historic winning ways in the near future. 

At Varina, Booker failed to find the academic rigor he was used to at Collegiate. He feels that Collegiate holds a strong balance between both competition in the classroom and on the football field, which is one of the main aspects he is looking for in his recruiting process. Booker will soon choose his top three schools, with a commitment expected to come in July this summer. Booker is excited for his senior season, hoping to end his high school career on a high note.

Featured image courtesy of Tom Lemming via twitter (@LemmingReport).