2016 Introduction: Kevin Costello

He just finished his freshman year of high school, but there's already buzz around Santa Margarita quarterback Kevin Costello as the next big-time signal caller to come out of Southern California.

Costello, who goes by "K.J." opened eyes at Stanford's camp last month. He received personal attention from the camp coaches and demonstrated an advanced skillset for a player who has yet to begin his sophomore season.

"Stanford was a trip well worth my time," Costello said. "I was extremely impressed with the coaching staff and the campus. My experience at Stanford this past week has given me a warm feeling that if I continue to outwork my competition it may be a place I attend in the future."

Indeed, while Costello won't have to make a college decision for several more years, Stanford is a school that has his attention.

"Stanford is absolutely a standout in my eyes right now," Costello said. "Washington State was the first college to show me a lot of love. USC and Notre Dame have been in my dreams ever since I visited both campuses."

In addition to Stanford, Costello has already received forms of recruiting attention from Oregon, Washington State, Florida, UCLA and Cincinnati. He has plans to camp with UCLA and USC this summer.

Academics are already a strong focus for Costello.

"As an athlete I take football extremely seriously," Costello said. "However, academics have always been my No. 1 priority. Day in and day out I believe as a leader I must be the first one on the field and the last one to leave. I'm a vocal leader and believe it means nothing unless I lead by example in everything I do. I have a 4.2 GPA and take pride in my class work. I believe I am where I am today because I truly believe no one puts in the hours I do."

Football, of course, will also factor heavily into Costello's recruitment.

"I'm looking for a school that lives and dies by football," Costello said. "Football is my life and it's been a dream to play D1 football ever since I could remember. (Also), I'm looking for a school that provides a top of the line education."

Costello and Santa Margarita begin their season in late August with a visit to Bishop Amat High School before a showdown with Nevada power Bishop Gorman the next week.