On the clock with … Spencer Stanley


Spencer Stanley, right, with fellow Rice recruit Zach Espinosa. (Photo courtesy of Spencer Stanley)

First in a series of question-and-answers with some of the newest members of the Rice football team.

Question: What influenced your decision to come to Rice?

Answer: Rice is the perfect combination of athletics and academics for me. I have two former teammates in high school that are on the football team so naturally Rice is the perfect fit.

Q: How big was your high school, Fort Worth Trinity Valley School, and did Rice’s size factor in your decision?

A: My high school has around 350-400 students. Rice’s smaller size was a major point for me as far as the academics are concerned because I am used to that kind of environment.

Q: What was the most memorable part of the recruiting process?

A: Either when coach (Chris) Thurmond called and offered me or (Feb. 1) when I signed my letter of intent to Rice University.

Q: Least memorable?

A: The whole process was pretty good, I honestly didn’t have a bad moment. I knew where I wanted to be and when the opportunity presented itself I seized it.

Q: What has it been like getting to know one of your new teammates, Zach Espinosa, while preparing for the International Bowl?

A: It has been really fun! Zach is a great guy and building bonds now will only pay off in the future. TEAM is the way to win and that starts with friendships.

Q: What’s the strength of your game?

A: The strongest things about my game are my quickness, footwork, and pass blocking ability.

Q: What should Owls fans be most excited about you coming to Rice?

A: What Owl fans should be excited about with me is that I will continually strive to be better and push my teammates to be the best that we can be on and off the field. We will win games and we will be good.

Q: I understand you have some unique interests in the martial arts? Tell us about it. Any other interests?

A: Yes I do, I am a first-degree black belt in American Karate, Tae Kwon Do, and Shizen-Na Karate. My martial arts background not only helps with toughness and determination but with footwork and hand speed. And I have a ton of other interests including wake boarding, fishing, and skiing.

Q: Have coaches told you what to expect as a freshman as far as playing time?

A: No they really haven’t, but I wouldn’t be surprised nor would it be a problem if I was to be redshirted. I just want to help in any way that I can.

Q: Have you decided what you plan to major in college?

A: I have a few ideas as to what I might want to major in but no definite plans yet. Possibly political science or business.

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Follow me on Twitter at Chronicle_Owls.

Categories: General, Owls
Joseph Duarte

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