Bernardi and Boykin showcase talent in postseason play
Posted by The Skyliner on January 27th, 2010Billy Cannada
Staff Writer
North Greenville University defensive end Andre Bernardi, senior sport management, and defensive back Xavier Boykin, senior sport management, showcased their talent for NFL scouts at the Cactus Bowl in Kingsville, Texas on January 8.
It was the defensive duo’s final game on the collegiate gridiron, but both Crusaders hope to continue playing football at the next level, whether it be in the NFL, CFL or any other professional football league. Jamey Chadwell, head football coach at North Greenville, says that the two seniors have proved themselves at the college level and he hopes that they can reach their ultimate goal.
“It was wonderful for those two to be able to see the hard work they have put in over the last four years,” Chadwell said. “To be selected by a committee that feels like they have potential to play at another level speaks very highly of them.”
Bernardi, who holds the record for most sacks in NCAA Division II history with 42 in his career, was also invited to the East Coast Bowl on Nov. 30, 2009, where he was nothing short of dominating, racking up a total of six tackles and a game high two sacks. Bernardi was also able to acquire one solo tackle and two assisted tackles in the Cactus Bowl. The star defensive end said that he enjoyed his time at the post-season bowl games and is ready for whatever the future holds for him
“I had a great time,” Bernardi said. “It was kind of overwhelming with all of the scouts there, but it was a lot of fun.”
Making it to the next level may, however, require Bernardi to change his position from defensive end to outside linebacker.
“A lot of the scouts have me ranked higher as an outside linebacker than at defensive end,” Bernardi said. “So I would have to be more of a stand-up defender.”
Having drawn some interest from professional scouts, Bernardi’s NFL future may now rest on his Pro Day, which he says, will be held sometime in mid-March at Clemson University.
“The draft is a possibility,” Bernardi said. “I would have to have a good Pro Day, but I might be looking at some sort of free agency if I don’t get drafted.”
Both of the Crusader defenders were excited to be at the Cactus Bowl and admitted that it made things easier having someone you already know with you.
“I was more comfortable having Andre there,” said Boykin. “He was also able to give me some tips since he has done this kind of thing before.”
Boykin, having never been to Texas, also had quite a performance at the Cactus Bowl, racking up four total tackles in the game.
“It was great to experience Texas for the first time,” Boykin said. “The competition there was very high and I think I definitely proved that I can play with the best Division II players in the country.”
Boykin said that he is very interested in playing football at the next level, but if it doesn’t work out, he has plans to manage a sports equipment business.
“I haven’t talked to any NFL scouts personally, but if football doesn’t work out, I would love to start a career doing something that I am very interested in,” said Boykin.
Tags: Spring 2010, Vol. 110 - Issue 1