Andrew Boselli (6-foot-4, 295 pounds), a junior offensive lineman for Episcopal High School, is excited about his April 16 commitment to Florida State over LSU, Miami, and Duke.
Several reasons beyond football influenced Boselli in his decision, including academics.
Boselli, who is interested in math and engineering in the future, said he was surprised at the reputation FSU has for academics.
“Their Honors Program is highly esteemed,” Boselli said. “It had a big impact on me. They also have some new academic facilities at FSU.”
Other factors that influenced Boselli are the big Nole fan base that lives in the Jacksonville area, the proximity of the school: close enough for his parents and friends to travel, and the continued growth of the football program.
FSU’s down year (10-2) by their standards did nothing to change Boselli’s decision.
“They had a good year overall,” Boselli said. “The Georgia Tech loss was kind of a fluke that happens every 10-15 years. Not going to the ACC Championship game is tough, but I understand that.”
Position coaches influence players’ choices in schools. Nole offensive line coach Rick Trickett impressed Boselli.
“Oh my goodness, meeting coach Trickett really sold the program to me and my dad,” Boselli said. “He inspired and motivated me. He’s a huge technician. He told me about the scheme that can take your game to next level.”
Trickett continues to keep in touch with Boselli on a weekly basis.
Head coach Jimbo Fisher made an impact on Boselli, too.
“He’s an awesome guy to talk to also,” Boselli said. “He was inspirational and got me excited to be a part of the program.”
Boselli said making the decision early will make his senior season less stressful. He said he felt a sense of peace and a calm that this is his correct choice.
Boselli attended three games in Doak Campbell Stadium this year along with the Florida game in Gainesville.
Regardless of whatever offensive line position that Boselli ends up playing, he said he will be ready.
“I’ve played center, guard, tackle, and tight end,” Boselli said. “I can pick up plays quickly. I can play wherever they need me.”
Boselli has played on the defensive line, but he prefers being on offense.
Boselli’s father, Tony, who played at Southern Cal and with the Jacksonville Jaguars, helped his son cut down his options.
“He helped me narrow it down to Duke and FSU,” Boselli said. “He wanted me to take serious consideration to his former school USC, but he didn’t pressure me. He made recommendations, and he was very supportive. He allowed me to decide what was best for me.”
This year’s Episcopal team finished with a record of 5-5. Boselli said the team struggled in some big games, but has the potential to rebound next season.
Boselli said Episcopal has rigorous academic standards that have helped him prepare for college.
When he is not in school or working out, Boselli said he enjoys hanging out with friends, going to the beach, and playing basketball or video games.”
Dr. Brett Foster, the Episcopal school chaplain, said Boselli has done well as a student athlete.
“Andrew is a really nice young man,” Foster said. “He’s always got a smile on his face and is very well liked around campus. He’s very devoted to athletic excellence. Overall a great guy!”
Player Spotlight/North Florida/February 2015
Andrew Boselli
Episcopal High School
Jacksonville, Florida
Brent Beaird
Andrew Boselli discusses what made him choose FSU
