All-American: Nichelson makes city history with bowl selection

By HUDSON WYATT 
The Tower 

Blake Nichelson is the first player in city history to play in the Adidas All American Bowl, played in San Antionio, Texas, on Dec. 7. The game was broadcast live on NBC. 

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound linebacker had an amazing senior season. Nichelson has committed to Florida State as a linebacker. In total, he had 19 offers and is ranked as a 4-star prospect on 247 Sports. Blake is the 12th ranked player in the state and ranked 15th for his position nationally, according to 247.  

Nichelson might be recruited as a linebacker, but he also shows a huge skill on the offensive side of the ball. Blake had 2,470 all-purpose yards and 43 total touchdowns this past season. With scoring 266 points in his season, leading his team to an 11-2 record and a Division II CIF SJS championship.  

“My high school career was great, being able to learn both sides of the ball were a fun experience. Playing with my closest friends was great. I have met lifelong friends playing football,” Nichelson said. 

Nichelson was awarded the Valley Oak League MVP, MaxPreps player of the year, and FrontRowPreps.com player of the year.  

“It’s great for the program to have a once in a generation talent like him. Hopefully there will be more down the road to play for a program like us.” said Manteca High Head Coach Mark Varnum. 

The All-American bowl handed out awards and Nichelson was a part of them. He was nominated for Defensive Player of the Year and Player of the Year, along with other players throughout the country.  

Even though the West team lost 55-17 to the East it did not affect Nichelson’s performance. The linebacker led all players in tackles with 9.  

“The bowl game was fun; you got a college feel. Being able to play in the game was a blessing. I got to show my talent and putting my city on the map,” said Nichelson when asked about his experience at the All-American game. 

Varnum and defensive Rick James attended the Adidas Army All-American Bowl. They watched their star player shine on the national stage.  

“He impressed. He can play with anyone at any level. He was one of the best defensive players in that bowl game. That is saying something when there's other national recruits going to big schools,” said Varnum on Blake’s performance. 

If you want to watch Nichelson play one more time he will be playing in the Polynesian bowl in Hawaii on Friday, Jan. 20, at 4 p.m.