HAMMONTON—St. Joseph Academy senior Tyler Paige announced last weekend that he will continue his football career at Farleigh Dickinson University (FDU).
“I am both proud and honored to say that I will be continuing my football and academic career at Farleigh Dickinson University,” Paige posted on social media last weekend.
“I am humbled to have received this chance and offer. I would like to thank my parents for all their hard work and dedication,” Paige wrote.
“Thank you to the coaching staff at FDU for taking the chance and believing in me,” he wrote.
Paige entertained offers from more than a dozen schools before settling on FDU, where he believes he will excel both athletically and academically.
After announcing his decision, he spoke about what went into his decision-making process.
“The things that ultimately made me choose FDU were the Coaching staff and their drive. They call their football family the R.E.A.L. family. I loved the campus when I visited and I see bright things for FDU’s football program,” he said.
Paige started games at linebacker, guard and fullback during his four seasons at St. Joseph, helping the Wildcats win a pair of state championships.
At FDU, Paige said he plans to be a linebacker, joining a long tradition of excellence the Knights have had at that position.
“I plan on playing linebacker at FDU for the next four years. It’s going to be great playing linebacker for FDU. They have had many All-American linebackers that have played for them in the past. With that being said, I plan on fulfilling the legacy they have at the linebacker position,” Paige said.
St. Joseph head coach Paul Sacco said Paige was a key contributor for the Wildcats during his career.
“Tyler did a number of things for us. He shifted around a little when we needed help on the offensive line, and he was one of our best defensive players. I think he’s going to do really well at Farleigh Dickinson,” Sacco said.
Paige recorded 43 tackles last season for the Wildcats, including nine for loss. He also added half a sack and an interception. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown in St. Joseph’s victory against Cedar Creek.
For his efforts, Paige earned several All-South Jersey and All-State honors.
“I believe that my career at St. Joseph was amazing. I started for three years at St. Joe and we won two championships while I was there. I have made some of my best friends with playing football at St. Joe,” Paige said.
The senior gave credit to his teammates and coaches.
“Without the coaches at St. Joe I would not be where I am today, or even have the ability to play at the next level. They have taught me many life lessons and have taught me how to be the player that I am today,” he said.
FDU’s football team did not play last season due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), but the Knights plan to complete a full season in 2021.