Nitchman





2005 All Star West

 

Joel Nitchman

Center

6’4″ 275 lbs.

High School Coach: Jim Coady

High School: Kalamazoo Hacket CC, C

College: Michigan State University

 

Joel was a four-year letterman for the Fighting Irish. He began his high school football career as center/nose tackle but spent most of his career as the strong side offensive and defensive tackle. Joel played both sides of the ball his entire football career. He was a two-year captain for Hacket and a two-year MVP. He is proud to have been a part of the Irish return to post-season play with their first play-off appearance in many years. Coach Jim Coady, has credited Joel as a “big part of the team’s winning season. We would not have been there without Joel Nitchman.”

 

Joel’s dream has always been to have the opportunity to play collegiate, and perhaps NFL football. In 2004, over 30 colleges and universities visited HCC to talk with Joel about coming to play football for them. “Every day was like Christmas” said Joel. Santa Claus (Coach John L. Smith) brought the offer Joel wanted most, a full scholarship from Michigan State University.

 

Joel is extremely honored to have the opportunity to continue to play the game he loves and to “take it to the next level.” “I thank God daily for the abilities and opportunities I have been given.” He also thanked profusely his parents, grandparents, sisters and brother, aunts and uncles, great friends, and wonderful coaches, trainers, and teachers for their guidance and support. Hackett CC football coach, Jim Coady, was an invaluable resource in the recruiting process. His knowledge of football extends far beyond the game on the field and he was a great help in Joel’s ability to move into the collegiate ranks.

 

Awards

All KVA Conference 1st Team, 2003 and 2004

All State, Detroit News, 2003

All State Team 1st Team, Detroit News and Detroit Free Press, 2004

Dream Team, Detroit News and Detroit Free Press, 2004

Blue Chip List, Detroit News, 2004

#1 Offensive Lineman in Michigan, 2004