Impressive 100-Tackle 2022 Safety Kamari Ramsey Wows with Six Scholarship Offers
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Over the past few years, the game of football at all levels has changed, and in some ways dramatically. The modern offensive schemes force a greater understanding of the game with more talented players to execute designed plays with more athletic players developed in opposition. Additionally, the offseason training players are receiving is taking young talent to a point where they can compete earlier in the process elevating the overall skill level on the field. One of the young torch bearers making an impact far beyond his grade classification is Class of 2022 safety Kamari Ramsey.
Sierra Canyon has been that California high school football program on the rise over the past five years. With each season completed, along with another deep post-season run, the Trailblazers have been bumped up a classification. During the 2018 season, the team competed against Division III competition finishing with a 12-3 mark that included a title win over Cajon (34-30) and run in the state playoffs. With each season played for the Trailblazers, another new and exciting talent emerges under head coach Jon Ellinghouse’s direction. Ramsey fit the bill getting a starting nod at the varsity level responding with 103 tackles, a pick, seven passes defended, and two fumble recoveries.
As to no surprise, the play of the 6-0, 185-pound, safety has brought college coaches to the Chatsworth yard. To date, six schools have offered with more looking on ready to see Ramsey’s progression over time. In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with Ramsey covering his expanding skills as a defensive back and his exciting recruiting process.
Interview
Kamari, I love your approach to the game as a safety. You come downhill or if you are going to the sideline you are ready to bring the pain. What is your mentality and approach to the game as a safety?
“I try to make every play. I don’t think someone else is going to make the play. Anything can happen – a missed tackle, whatever. I try my hardest to get to the ball on every play.”
You lit up a lot of cats last season with 103 stops. As the 2018 season went along, how did your game show improvement?
“The game started to slow down. After it started to slow down, I sped up and saw things faster. My teammates started seeing that in me. Our chemistry got better and everything went smoother.”
Will your role with the Trailblazers change or expand during your sophomore campaign?
“I hope to expand it. We need some help in other areas. I want to help on special teams and on offense. I will play some receiver this season, I just have to learn the plays.”
What have you been working on this offseason overall?
“I have been working on my DB training. I have been working on my speed and my weight lifting. Last year was my first year playing safety. I am loosening up my hips and getting my footwork down before our season starts.”
Where are you again seeing the improvements?
“I am seeing stuff faster and I am quicker. My coverage is getting better.”
Have you been working with a trainer this offseason to prepare you for the 2019 grind?
“I have been working out at my school and with Formula for Speed. The extra training with Formula for Speed has helped my footwork, my coverage, and has helped me to know the game even better.”
Did you play 7v7 with a travel team this spring?
“I did. I played with Formula for Speed.”
They trained you on the side, how did the 7v7 reps with that travel team help expand your talents as a defensive back?
“It helped a lot. There are a lot of athletes playing 7v7 out here. That improves your overall game. You see the speed, routes and plays – it makes you better for the experience.”
Did you compete at any camps over the summer?
“Yes. I went to a USC camp.”
How did that camp performance turn out?
“It went really well. The coaching I received there helped me. I learned things I did not know.”
After your big freshman season schools took notice. How many offers do you have now?
“I have six offers.”
Which schools have offered?
“Oregon, Nebraska, Penn State, Ohio State, Michigan, and Colorado.”
Wow. Congratulations.
“Thank you.”
Getting offers can be a motivating tool. What has it been like for you getting all of these offers early in your high school career?
“It has been motivating and it has been a blessing. I did not think I would have these offers in my freshman year.”
Going back to football. How has the team looked this offseason in practices?
“We are looking very good. We are young but talented. We are learning from last year. We are learning from the state game. We have humbled ourselves so we can get back to the championship game.”
Last question. With a 100-plus tackle season under your belt, what are your goals for the 2019 season?
“If I can get to 100 tackles again this season that would be great. I want more interceptions, forced fumbles, and plays like that to help my team win games.”
Kamari, it has been great learning more about you and your game today. Thanks for your time and good luck with the upcoming season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Sierra Canyon Athletics; No. 33 Kamari Ramsey in action