Cardinal Coachspeak: Henry Hattis
One of the most intriguing members of the 2016 class comes from a state that typically doesn’t produce a ton of top college football talent.
After a starring performance at a Stanford camp, New Mexico native Henry Hattis, earned an offer from the Cardinal and committed not long offer. As he gets ready to transition to the Division I level, we caught up with Heath Ridenour, Hattis' head coach at Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, for the next round of the #CardinalCoachSpeak series.
Cardinal Sports Report: Henry really impressed Stanford coaches with his performance at camp. What was it about his performance at the camp that you think really elevated his profile with the coaching staff and earned him the offer?
Heath Ridenour: Henry is a big kid and immediately draws attention when he shows up. Henry worked very hard with our offensive line coach, Jason Hoffman, to fine tune his technique. I really believe that his attention to detail in his technique and footwork is what sets him apart from others. Also, when the ball is snapped Henry is a very physical presence. He uses those big hands that he has to really dominate the opposition.
CSR: With New Mexico not producing a ton of BCS level talent each year, do you think that Henry's recruitment was at all hindered based on location and the competition he played against?
Ridenour: I truly believe that New Mexico kids do not draw near as much attention as kids from other states. I believe Henry was heavily recruited, but it was because he and his family chose to travel to a lot of camps to gain exposure. I do think location plays a big factor in all kids being recruited in New Mexico unfortunately.
CSR: Henry performed very well at the Semper Fidelis bowl. Were you at all surprised by how well he performed, and do you think his performance solidified how well he can perform at the next level.
Ridenour: I was very pleased with his performance. I knew he would do very well against top notch competition because he is just that type of a player. That was the first glimpse the nation got to see of him.
CSR: For those that haven't seen Henry play, what are the skills and attributes that made him such a priority for Stanford?
Ridenour: His physical presence is obviously what catches your eye first, but his daily grind in the weight room and on the field are what will surprise people the most. He wants to be the best. That's why he chose to play for a school with such a rich academic and football tradition.
CSR: On the flip side, what are the areas of his game that you think Henry really needs to focus on to improve before he is ready to make an impact at Stanford?
Ridenour: The speed of the game will be Henry's biggest challenge as it is for most all incoming freshmen. He will gain the necessary weight and strength to compete. The speed will be the last thing to come, but he will figure it out. I don't worry about his mental approach to the game or his ability to grasp and understand concepts. He is very intelligent and will find a way to be successful.