In the world of college football recruiting, a recent commitment has caught the attention of many. Chatsworth's Sierra Canyon defensive back, Myles Baker, has made his decision to play for the Cal Bears, and it's an intriguing move that sheds light on the power of coaching connections and the impact of a program's culture.
The Surprising Commitment
When we first heard about Baker's plans, an early commitment to Cal wasn't on the radar. With visits lined up to heavyweights like LSU, Alabama, and Ohio State, it seemed like he was keeping his options open. But a visit to Berkeley changed everything.
The Tosh Factor
"Tosh really sealed the deal for me," Baker said, referring to Cal's head coach, Tosh Lupoi. This isn't just a case of a player being wooed by a charismatic coach; Baker already had a relationship with Lupoi and his staff from their time at Oregon. What stood out to Baker was Lupoi's intentionality and his intense motivation to build a winning program at Cal.
"When we sat down and talked, it was probably the best meeting I've had with any head coach. He's very intentional about everything he's doing." - Myles Baker
The connection Baker felt with Lupoi and the coaching staff extended beyond the head coach. He had positive relationships with safeties coach Connor Boyd, defensive coordinator Michael Hutchings, and corners coach Da'Von Brown. The presence of Ron Rivera, the general manager who played at Cal, added to the family vibe that Baker appreciated.
Culture and Connection
What makes Baker's commitment so fascinating is the role that culture and connection played. He described the practice environment as high-intensity and productive, with everyone on the move. This energetic atmosphere, coupled with the passionate and intentional coaching staff, sold Baker on Cal.
"I just loved the environment and the overall culture Tosh is building there." - Myles Baker
Versatility and Position
Baker's versatility as a defensive player is an asset, with some schools eyeing him as a linebacker. However, Cal's commitment to playing him at safety, a position he prefers, was a significant factor in his decision. Baker appreciated Lupoi's honesty about his potential role and the opportunity to make an impact as a true freshman.
The Bigger Picture
Baker's commitment is a coup for Cal, especially considering the heavyweight programs he turned down. It highlights the importance of coaching relationships and the impact a program's culture can have on recruiting. In an era where player development and culture are increasingly valued, Cal's approach seems to be paying off.
"The overall vibe and how bought in everyone is" was a deciding factor for Baker, showcasing the power of a unified and passionate program.
As Cal continues to build its roster, Baker's commitment is a statement of intent and a sign of the program's growing appeal.
