Glenbard West junior running back Sam Brodner laughed at the word coach Chad Hetlet affectionately used to describe his athletic prowess. “Freak.” Hetlet mentioned the word numerous times to highlight Brodner’s unique athleticism. “I love it, especially coming from our coach. That is a big compliment,” Brodner said. “He doesn’t throw those words around too much.” His off-the-charts athleticism is one of the reasons Illinois, Nevada, Wyoming, Bowling Green, Ball State and Illinois State have offered him a scholarship. Being labeled a freak, at least in terms of athleticism, is definitely a good thing for a player looking to earn a scholarship to a power–conference school. Hetlet, who guided the Hilltoppers to a Class 7A state championship in 2012, is no stranger to coaching an athletic specimen. Former Glenbard West defensive lineman Tommy Schutt had 10 tackles for the national champion Ohio State Buckeyes this season. “Sam is a special athlete,” Hetlet said. “He looks like a linebacker running with the ball. His speed, agility and the way he moves plus his hands, he has the complete package. He had camel humps on his shoulder. He looks like a man, but he still is a puppy. He’s one our strongest kids in the weight room. He’s a freak, and a good football player.” Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 215 pounds, Brodner put on a show at the Nike Opening Regional at Addison Trail on May 3. He clocked a 4.49 in the 40 and recorded a 39.6-inch vertical. Brodner said his max bench press is 315 pounds, and he can squat 500 pounds. He scored in the 99th percentile in three of the categories in the combine, plus scored in the 97th percentile in the power ball and 92nd percentile in the agility drill. “I have been working on my vertical, trying to get that better,” Brodner said…
Continue Reading: Football recruiting: Glenbard West’s Sam Brodner hopes two-way play draws more offers
