Kedric Prince, IlliniGuys Director of Recruiting

November 13, 2023

Ca'Lil Valentine courtesy Kedric Prince, IlliniGuys

Champaign, Ill–The visitor list for the Indiana Hoosier-Illinois game was thin, but, according to several sources, that is a good thing because most of the recruits the Illini are pursuing will be competing in the state of Illinois playoffs.

But committed running back Ca'Lil Valentine made the trip from Arizona, and IlliniGuys caught up with Valentine to gauge his visit this weekend.

"I'm glad to be here; this will be my new home soon. Being able to talk to all of the coaches, especially Coach B (Bret)--he's a great guy who's done a great job of turning the program around," Valentine said. 

The playoff will start next week for Chandler High School; the 6-foot-0 three-star speedster is ready to win it all.

With several microphones in his face, he was asked what he is looking forward to the most when he arrives on campus. 

"Oh, I can't wait to get in the backfield with Kaden (Feagin) because he has all the power needed, and I will bring the speed to the backfield; we'll be a tough matchup for the team," Valentine said.

Like most classes in the past, the class of 2024 created a group chat that is very active. 

"Oh, we talk all the time. Guys like Trey Petty and Demetrius John are really involved; we're also trying to bring a few others in with us," he said with a smile. 

Watching the game, Valentine was looking to see how the line works together and how they use the backfield. 

After all, he said, "Illinois will play freshmen if you're able to come in right away and compete. They’ve proven to all of us they aren't afraid to play younger guys." 

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email: KedIlliniGuys@gmail.com