Varina’s Harrison commits to UR

The University of Richmond's football program yesterday received its 12th oral commitment from a member of the Class of 2010.

Varina High's Jerel Harrison, a wide receiver/defensive back/kick returner, is the fifth Richmond-area prospect to commit to the Spiders. Also committed to UR are Highland Springs DB DeShawn Holmes, Henrico DB DreQuan Hoskey, Collegiate QB Jake McGee and Highland Springs DT Rashad Winston.

Harrison, a 5-11, 171-pounder, is projected as wide receiver on the college level.

"Richmond is getting a Division 1-A player," Varina coach Stu Brown said. "They got a game breaker. He's punishing, and he has speed. Some receivers don't want the ball over the middle. He asks for it across the middle. He's looking for someone to hit. He isn't going to dodge anyone.

"He's liked Richmond all along. He couldn't find a better fit. He's an academic kid."

Harrison returned the opening kickoff 75 yards for a touchdown in top-ranked Varina's victory over Dinwiddie last Friday.

Ten of the 12 players from whom UR has received oral commitments are Virginians.

NCAA rules prohibit college coaches from commenting on recruits until they have signed and returned the college letters-of-intent. The signing period begins in early February.

The Spiders won last season's Football Championship Subdivision title and are ranked No. 1 in the FCS poll. Richmond signed 14 players last February. -- John O'Connor

Staff writer Arthur Utley contributed to this report.