Interview: Haughton All-Time Leading Tackler LB Jake St. Andre Signs with Louisiana
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Jake St. Andre made a name for himself throughout his career at Haughton High School putting an exclamation mark on it all in 2020 as he racked up 106 total tackles including seven for a loss, one interception, and one defensive touchdown. The highly productive senior season for the Buccaneers ultimately helped Andre become the program’s all-time leading tackler. After the 2020 season, Andre won numerous individual honors including All-Northwest Louisiana Defensive Player of the Year and first team All-State.
On Nov. 30, 2020, St. Andre announced on his Twitter page, “I will be continuing my athletic and academic career at the University of Louisiana!” The 6’1″, 220-pound, tackling machine chose the Cajuns over Southern Miss and Northwestern State.
St. Andre joins a program that is coming off a 10-1 season and has a recruiting class currently ranked second in the Sun Belt Conference, 78th in the country.
It will be exciting to watch Jake take his talents to the collegiate level after leaving a lasting legacy on the Haughton program.
*Click link for previous RNG interview with Jake St. Andre
Interview
First off, Jake, congratulations on signing with the Ragin Cajuns. How would you describe your excitement to sign with Louisiana?
Beyond excited to have an opportunity to play for Louisiana.
Which coach did you commit too and how did it take place?
It took place over the phone, and it was with Coach Armstrong (linebackers’ coach).
What were some of the factors that convinced you to attend Louisiana?
Being able to stay in my home state and represent that across my chest was a huge part of it. And the program they have going right now is incredible. Coach Napier has really created a culture to be a part of.
What will some of the things you’ll miss most about playing at Haughton?
I will definitely miss the atmosphere of playing at Haughton. We have the best fans around who come out and support us every given Friday. Beneath the pines is unlike any other.
What do you want your legacy to be as you graduate from Haughton High School?
Leaving Haughton High School, I hope I was able to inspire a lot of the younger guys and push them to be the best version of themselves they can be.
Who had the biggest impact on your high school football career?
Definitely my family. They always pushed me to not only be the player I could be but also the best person.
What is one thing you’re most looking forward to about attending Louisiana?
I am really looking forward to being a part of the program and I am excited to live in the great city of Lafayette.
Thank you for your time and congratulations on your signing with Louisiana.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: The St. Andre Family; Haughton LB Jake St. Andre signs with Louisiana