Jake Janicki (’23) commits to Catholic University for football

Jake Janicki (‘23) has officially committed to Catholic University to continue his athletic and academic pursuits. Janicki’s football journey began during his freshman year, and since then, he has overcome challenges and found success. 

Outside of high school football, Janicki explained that there were limited opportunities to participate in organized football programs, apart from the occasional 7v7 competitions. Recalling the recruiting process, Janicki described it as both enjoyable and challenging. Ultimately, Janicki made the decision to commit to Catholic University due to their exceptional football program and the warm reception he received from the team. 

“It was difficult to choose one school,” he admitted. “Catholic University had as nice of a campus as any school I’ve seen, along with a great football program.”

When asked about the figures who inspired him during his early football career, Janicki immediately acknowledged the impact of Coach Ascola, his linebacker coach at East. In addition to skill development, Coach Ascola provided Janicki with valuable in-game experience by involving him in special teams opportunities. In addition to Ascola, Head Coach  Tyler Drob left an indelible mark on Janicki’s football journey. His mentorship extended beyond the field, as he played a vital role in facilitating Janicki’s recruitment and connecting him with college football programs.

“Coach Drob made the biggest impact,” Janicki shared. “He always pushed me to become a better player and leader, which eventually led to me becoming a team captain.” 

Throughout his high school football experience, Janicki characterized it as “fun and highly competitive.” The brotherhood among teammates and the thrill of facing rival teams fueled his passion for the game. Whether it was the intense practice sessions or the exhilarating game days, Janicki embraced every opportunity to showcase his skills and make a lasting impact.

Janicki’s most memorable moment playing for East was beating Haddon Township to win the conference. Janicki vividly recounted the week leading up to the game, following a tough loss against West. With relentless preparation, he studied Haddon Township’s offense and delivered a standout performance. Janicki’s exceptional game statistics included nine tackles, a tackle for loss, and an interception, solidifying his position as a key player in the victory. 

As Janicki embarks on his college football journey at Catholic University, he carries with him the invaluable experiences and lessons learned from his time at East. His commitment, dedication, and unwavering passion for the sport have undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting future.