‘Speedy’ Chaminade receiver earns opportunity as five Lions athletes sign with colleges
Chaminade-Madonna has become one of the hot spots for football recruiters from Power Five schools for some time.
But in today’s era of rampant activity with the NCAA transfer portal, there have been fewer opportunities for the more “under the radar” talent to earn a scholarship offer.
It’s part of the reason Lions wide receiver Duane Thomas Jr. had to wait until recently for an FBS-level program to offer him such a chance.
Thomas Jr. was one of four players from Chaminade’s latest state championship squad - and one of five athletes overall - who signed with colleges on Wednesday as part of national signing day.
Thomas Jr., a 5-10, 175 pound receiver who also played running back and returned kicks for the Lions during his career, signed with Charlotte.
Thomas Jr., nicknamed “Speedy” since his days playing Optimist football, had 35 catches for 606 yards and six touchdowns this past season as Chaminade cruised to its second consecutive state title and fifth in the past six seasons.
“I didn’t think it was going to turn out like this but God has plans for everyone,” Thomas Jr. said. “I’m just thankful. It’s a big opportunity because it’s a new staff and it’s going to be a great opportunity. I just have to step in from day one and show I could play good football.”
Chaminade coach Dameon Jones, who has coached plenty of four- and five-star talent during his career coaching the Lions and previously at Hallandale High, said he was really happy for Thomas Jr. and his three other signees on Wednesday.
Those were safety Jeno Junius, who signed with Western Carolina, and offensive linemen Elvin Harris (Campbell) and Giovani Marks (Warner University).
“Especially with today’s world with the transfer portal, I’m ecstatic for these kids. This is what it’s about,” Jones said. “Things started taking off for Thomas late, Boise State and Charlotte came in. The spots fit for a lot of these kids because sometimes kids go too big because of the name. These guys have a chance to be dominant early and get a shot at the next level.”
In addition to Chaminade’s football signees, girls’ volleyball standout Emma Gulaskey also signed with Endicott College in Massachusetts.
Gulaskey, a first team All-Broward selection, led the Lions to the regional semifinals and a 20-win season this year while amassing 231 kills, 278 digs and 132 service points.
