Interview: 2022 WR Rocco Ciocca Turned in Breakout Season against 5A Indiana Defenses
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Every offense needs a big athletic receiver that can get downfield, go up and get it, and has the will to win on each game rep. At Bishop Dwenger High School, that player is Rocco Ciocca. Ciocca poured it on 5A Indiana defenses during the 2020 season hauling in 38 passes for 752 yards with nine scores posted on the big board. Because of his versatility, the 6-4, 200-pound, talent can line up on the outside commanding a corner and a safety, can go inside outrunning linebackers and towering over safeties, and the option to play him at tight end is always on the table.
After the breakout junior campaign, Ciocca stopped by the RNG Clubhouse for an in-depth interview covering ground on his skills and recruiting process.
Interview
Rocco, you were laying it on 5A Indiana defenses during the 2020 season showing that you are a big-time difference maker as a receiving target. What was working for you leading to the big season on the field?
Coming into that season, it was the chemistry with my quarterback. We were throwing routes every week before the season began. By the time we were going against big competition in the playoffs, we knew what one another was going to do. By the team we were into the season, we were clicking.
What offensive set were the Saints executing?
We would switch it up. It depended on our game plan. We were either airing it out or run heavy.
What were some of the routes you were running?
Most of the time, like on the goal line, fades so I could go get it. I was also running posts, outs, slants, ins, and digs.
As the stats started piling up, how were defenses lining up against you?
Against Northside, they pressed me. They changed their defense that way with a safety over top. Once they saw the press was not working, they stopped. Then they’d play the corner 10 yards off, but then we started running out routes.
Strictly from a route running perspective, from you release to the reception, how did that part of your game improve during the 2020 season?
I didn’t think it would be a big factor but at the end I saw that it was. It was my releases and making sure I was taking the right steps on my routes.
What have you been working on with your technique this offseason?
I have been working on my footwork, my speed, breaking into a route, and getting in and out of breaks. A big focus on my speed in and out of my breaks.
When the 2021 season gets going, are you taking on any other roles?
Right now, I am still at receiver but tight end is an option. If I am allowed to play defense, I will play free safety.
What are some of the strength and speed workouts you are doing?
I go to a trainer five days a week. Again, working on getting in and out of my breaks, the steps for each route, and perfecting each route. When we train, we do a lot of partner workouts. We have someone with a bungee cord attached to you pulling behind you and you have to run through it.
Have you posted a 40-yard dash this offseason?
Yes, we just ran one last week; I ran a 4.69.
Are you playing any other varsity sports for the Saints?
Yes, I play basketball.
Now that camp season is getting going, are there any you have been to yet or any you have coming up?
I have been to one so far, Empowered, a Midwest showcase. I am planning on going more this summer.
Let’s close talking about recruiting. Which schools are showing recruiting interest?
Army, Miami-Ohio, Northern Illinois, Eastern Michigan, and IU (Indiana).
Looking ahead to this summer, are there any recruiting visits you may take?
I’d really like to visit IU in Bloomington, Northern Illinois, their campus looks nice, along with Eastern and Western Michigan.
Rocco, thank you for your time today. Wishing you great success this offseason preparing for the 2021 season and with the upcoming camps.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Ciocca family; Rocco Ciocca