Calcagno commits to Illinois

Naperville (Ill.) North senior wide receiver recruit Nick Calcagno (6-foot-3, 195 pounds) took his time with his recruiting process and in the end decided to accept a preferred walk on spot from the University of Illinois on Saturday. Calcagno discusses his decision here.

"Once I decided to go the PWO route it came down to a handful of school," Calcagno said. "I narrowed it down to either Illinois or Iowa and in the end I really liked it at Illinois."

Calcagno filled us in on why he decided to forgo some FBS and FCS offers to take a PWO offer from Illinois.

"My goal from very early on was to play at the highest level possible and Illinois offered me that chance. I've always wanted to play in the Big Ten. I really like the coaches at Illinois including Lovie Smith. I wanted to be one of the classes that will turn Illinois football around. Illinois also likes me as a wide receiver. Iowa and some other schools wanted me to convert over to linebacker. I'v e just always have felt the most comfortable playing on offense and I'm happy that I'm also staying on offense at receiver."

Calcagno, who made a visit to Illinois on Saturday came away sold on the Fighting Illini program.

"I just like what Illinois has going. I was very comfortable with the staff and I already know some of the guys on the team which helps. Illinois is also pretty close to home which is also great for my family plus Illinois offers a great education. It's just a great fit and everything I was looking for in a school and an opportunity."

So what was the hardest part of the process for Calcagno?

"I would say just how long everything took to come together. It got to a point where I just wanted it to end and be done with for awhile but I'm glad I waited and hung on. I'm just excited about Illinois and excited about my decision."

Nick Calcagno is verbally committed to Illinois.

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