Handley commits to Utah
Until Monday, Alta (Sandy, Utah) tight end Harrison Handley was taking his time to make a decision. However, the 6-foot-6 inch, 200 pound tight end prospect decided to end his recruitment with a commitment to hometown favorite Utah.
Although Handley hadn't been in a hurry to make a commitment, an unofficial visit to Utah last Friday changed his mind. "When I went down for my visit last Friday, I spent a lot of time with Coach Hill and Coach Tuiaki. They made it feel like Utah was the place I need to be. It just felt like home. We really connected. I got along with them and felt like Utah was the place," Handley said.
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According to Handley, the Utes plan to use him as a tight end and a slot receiver. Handley is especially excited at the prospect of playing for new Ute offensive coordinator Brian Johnson. "It's going to be so awesome. He played just a few years ago and was an amazing player. I'm grateful for the opportunity to play for him. He knows what he's talking about and knows how to call an offense. It will be fun to play for him. I'm excited," he explained.
Handley also feels a strong connection to Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham. "I love coach Whit. He's awesome. Every time I would go up to his office to visit, he's always the friendliest guy. He played a huge part in why I chose Utah," he said.
Handley, who was also recruited by in-state rivals Utah State and BYU, was relieved to finally end his recruitment. "It was hard [to give Utah State and BYU the news], but then again it was a relief to just get it over with. It was great getting recruited by all of them. I was glad it was over, and they were excited for me. It was a good experience," he said.
For Handley, his attention will now turn from recruiting to playing his senior season for Alta and finishing his high school career. Handley is looking forward to joining the Utes and is working to graduate early and join the Utes for spring practice in 2013.