Interview: Talented 2019 ATH/WR Orlando Ornelas Talks California Davis Commitment
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Every now and again a FCS program scores a big win over their FBS counterparts snagging a top-tier talent out from under the noses. While many Division-I programs were in a wait and see mode with Class of 2019 receiver Orlando Ornelas (6-0, 185), California-Davis had their eyes on the prized recruit. Ornelas dazzled during his junior season for Chaparral (Temecula) as an all-around talent passing for 103 yards off 10-of-15 attempts, rushed for 326 yards on 55 totes with two scores, and truly shinned at receiver hauling in 18 passes for 483 yards with six more trips into the end zone. If that was not enough, he showcased his speed and athleticism as return specialist and notched 14 tackles along with a pick on defense.
On Thursday, Ornelas recruiting process came to a halt with his announced verbal commitment to the Aggies. In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I caught up with the 6-0, 195-pound, pure athlete for the inside scoop.
*Click link for Jan. 24, 2018, RNG interview with Orlando Ornelas
Interview
Orlando, congratulations on your commitment to California-Davis.
“Thank you.”
How did the relationship between the UC-Davis coaches and you start?
“A while back, during our track season, Coach Cody (Hawkins – receivers) and Coach (Tim) Plough (OC) hit me up. They saw me as a big-time prospect and big-time player. Coach Cody and I have been talking almost every other day since then. The relationship with Coach Cody and I kept getting better and better.”
When did you start thinking UC-Davis might be the school for you?
“Ever since I took my unofficial visit. They showed me a lot of love during my visit. It was a great experience. I had a great feel for the school and the coaches during my visit. I have had them in mind since then. When I was on my visit, I could see myself going to school there for the next four years.”
When did you receive your offer from the Aggies?
“About two months ago, on April 23.”
You mentioned the visit to UC-Davis, what all did you do during the trip?
“I went on a visit there about 3.5 months ago. When we got there, we had breakfast. I was there for their pro-day, I saw all of that. We had lunch and toured the campus – it was beautiful. It just seemed like a good fit for me.”
Did you get a chance to camp at UC-Davis this summer?
“No, but I saw some of the coaches at a USC camp this year.”
What factors ultimately led you to commit to the Aggies?
“Education played a big role. Being a UC-Davis graduate, that paper goes a long way in life after football. The coaches made me feel like they wanted me. No other coach that was recruiting me did that. How often Coach Cody was in contact with me, that proved to me I was a priority for them. They are a program coming up. They are doing a $40 million renovation with their facilities – some great things are going on there. Plus, I get to stay in California. UC-Davis felt like a perfect fit for me.”
When did you commit to the coaching staff and which coach got your call?
“I committed on the 20th (Wednesday) at around 9:30 but announced it on Thursday. I called Coach Cody, then he had a joint call with his dad (Dan Hawkins), the head coach, and then Jerry Brady, their outside linebackers coach.”
What was going through your mind right before you verbally committed?
“I was nervous and I was a little anxious. This is a big decision. I had a nervous feeling but I was filled with excitement, a mixture of both. Tough to put into words.”
What was the reaction of the Coach Cody when you committed?
“He was screaming and yelling. He was hyped and so excited. He said, ‘I have to call my dad’ and he reacted the same way; so did Coach Brady when he called him. I felt the love through the phone.”
Back on the gridiron, how are your offseason workouts coming along?
“They are going well. We started summer camp last Monday. We have something special here. Our team chemistry is great. I cannot wait for the season.”
Where are you seeing the biggest gains in your skillset?
“I am seeing the biggest gains with my route running. I have gotten better off the line thanks to Coach Byrd (E.A.T). I am quicker in and out of my cuts and I am catching the ball better.”
What’s the goal for you for the rest of the summer with your workouts before the season begins?
“My goal is to keep getting better, focus on the fundamentals, and be an even better teammate. I want to get bigger, stronger, faster and lead the team to a ring.”
Orlando, once again, congratulations on your commitment and good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com a national site aiding in bringing exposure to amazing student-athletes!
If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!
Photo credit: Ornelas family; Orlando Ornelas at UC-Davis