WATCH: Tino Ellis UA jersey presentation
HYATTSVILLE, Md. – Tino Ellis was one of three players at DeMatha Catholic presented with an Under Armour All America jersey on Thursday afternoon, in a ceremony attended by friends and family.
For the 6-foot-1, 190-pound receiver and Maryland commitment who grew up watching the Under Armour All-America Game, the chance to follow in some very famous footsteps provides a special opportunity.
“It’s truly an honor to be an Under Armour All-America,” said Ellis. “It’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was little. Watching guys like A.J. Green and Julio Jones play before me, it makes it real special to be a part of the game and the history.”
.@DeMathaCatholic players @THEGIF7 @Shizzeee_ @IamTinoEllis receiving Under Armour @AllAmericaGame jerseys. pic.twitter.com/2KdQSJxSit
— Gerry Hamilton (@HamiltonESPN) September 10, 2015
Ellis is one of the leaders of a DeMatha Catholic team that is considered among the nation’s elite. For the four-star ranked receiver, this is a team award as well.
“It means a lot to the school because it’s truly a brotherhood here at DeMatha, and that makes it truly special. I feel like this team is special and this is an award for the team.”
On the final day of July, Ellis committed to Maryland, becoming yet another talented prospect to stay home and play for the Terrapins. The chance to play in front of friends and family made for an easy decision at the end of the day.
“What led me to the decision is basically my hometown. I’m right here at my home and my family is here. I have a great relationship with [assistant] Coach [Mike] Locksley and Coach [Randy] Edsall. I’m excited to play close to my hometown.”
#ESPN 4-star WR & #Maryland commit @IamTinoEllis @DeMathaCatholic Under Armour @AllAmericaGame jersey ceremony. pic.twitter.com/tPn4SfTPcK
— Gerry Hamilton (@HamiltonESPN) September 10, 2015
Seven questions with Tino Ellis:
What player are you looking forward to competing with or against in the Under Armour All-America Game?
Definitely Levonta Taylor. I got a piece of him at Nike and Rivals. I feel like he is great competition.
If you could start a team with any player in your class, who would it be and why?
Dwayne Haskins. He’s a quarterback, and a great leader on and off the field.
What is your earliest football memory?
I would say me scoring on the goal line when I was five playing 7u.
Which football player did you watch as a kid?
Definitely Michael Vick. He’s the reason I wear seven. He was a great player at Virginia Tech and in the early stages in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons. He was definitely a great player.
If you could take on any pro in their sport, who would it be and why?
LeBron James. because I feel like I could bring him some competition on the court and go at him.
What number do your wear, and why?
The number I wear, seven, is Michael Vick. His play was an influence on me when I was young.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People would be surprised that I’m a humble person. I think a lot of people think I have a big head. Also, I love to play the guitar.