Interview: 4-Star 2020 St. John Bosco WR Logan Loya Updates Season and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Since breaking through to the varsity level as a freshman, Logan Loya has worked his way into becoming one of the nation’s top-Class of 2020 receivers. Entering his senior season, the four-star recruit had amassed 1,967 yards off 152 receptions with 23 touchdowns scored going primarily against high-end Trinity League talent. He has pulled down passes with current South Carolina true freshman starting quarterback Ryan Hilinski and is now securing them with five-star 2020 gunslinger DJ Uiagalelei (Clemson) at St. John Bosco (Bellflower). His Braves squad is off to a 3-0 record with a No. 2 national ranking (MaxPreps) after downing DeMatha (MD), Don Bosco Prep (NJ), and Liberty (NV). On a roster filled with next level receivers, the 6-0, 185-pound, speedster is leading the team in receptions (12) and is second in receiving yards (234). But more challenges lay ahead giving Loya more opportunities to show college coaching staffs his game changing skills.
The Braves have another national challenge on their hands come Friday hosting the fifth ranked team in Maryland, Our Lady of Good Counsel. The Falcons (2-0) are loaded with senior talent on defense. The Bosco offense is staring down defensive backs Jalen McNair, Jason Scott (Boston College) and Nic Ware (Delaware State) along with defensive end Kris Jenkins Jr. (Michigan), linebacker Mitchell Helton (Ohio State), and defensive tackle George Wolo (Bufallo). The showdown will further prepare the team for what will be another grueling run through the Trinity League starting on Oct. 4 when Servite comes to town.
Ahead of the big match-up against the Falcons, I caught up Loya to see how the early part of his senior season is taking off and to find out where he is at with recruiting along with his 14 scholarship offers.
*Click link for July 2, 2019, RNG video interview with Logan Loya
Interview
Logan, the Braves have started out hot tearing up opposing defenses averaging 47 points per game. Obviously, the talent is there, what else is working for you guys on offense?
“It is our game plan and our preparation before the game. We are putting in the field time, studying film, and doing all the off the field stuff that needs to be done to win games. Our coaches are putting us in position to tear them up and make them want to quit football.”
How are the Braves utilizing your talents within the offense?
“They are using me at slot, moving me around creating match-ups that are favorable. Every match up is a win in our book. The toughest thing for our offense is DJ Uiagalelei picking who to throw to because everyone is open.”
Which routes are you going out on this season?
“I am running the whole route tree.”
Of the three games played, which was your personal best and why?
“My best game was our first game (DeMatha). I had the most production so far in that game (won 35-7).”
*nine receptions for 162 yards
Which areas of your game are you constantly working on in practice this season?
“I am working on my speed, yards after catch – the YAC, and making those big-time plays – the 15-yarder that turns into a 60-yard touchdown.”
You tore it up last season with Orange Lutheran, what are the differences in your game overall from a year ago?
“I think my game is a whole level higher. The work we do at Bosco is different. It is helping me out becoming a better overall player. I am better getting out of routes, I am better at blocking, I am better at the top of route and getting off a hold. I am stronger overall than I was a year ago.”
The Braves have another interesting match-up this week playing host to Our Lady of Good Counsel out of Maryland. What kind of match-up are you looking at against the Falcons’ secondary?
“They say this is the best secondary we have gone up against so far. I am interested in that challenge. That sounds the most fun for me. We are going against dudes who are supposed to be good and think they can lock us down.”
Logan, you have the 14 offers, which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Cal and FSU (Florida State).”
Loya’s Offer Sheet (14): Iowa State, Colorado, Oregon, Utah, San Jose State, Oregon State, Nebraska, Vanderbilt, Arizona State, Washington, UCLA, USC, and Washington State
Have you set up any official or unofficial visits for this fall?
“I have none scheduled yet, but we will work on some.”
Do you plan on narrowing down your offers to a top list shared on social media?
“I have not thought about. Most likely will not. I will take my five officials, that will be my top five. I don’t think I will put out a top schools list.”
What will the schools making the cut have that separates them from the rest?
“My Top 5 will be the schools that are the best for me – where I want to go to, who I want to play for, the best place school wise for on and off the field.”
Makes sense. Logan, always great catching up with you. I appreciate your time and wish you and the Braves success this season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: 15/50 Sports/Loya family; No. 17 Logan Loya
Photo credit: St. John Bosco/Loya family; No. 17 Logan Loya