“The main thing I remember about my junior season was losing to Madison in the state regional game,” Hall said. “We were up 47-28 with nine minutes left and let them back in the game and lost in overtime.”
Hall credits the Calabasas coaching staff, Tristan Gebbia and his own mentality for why he was able to play as well as he did against the Warhawks.
“I just didn’t want to lose,” Hall said. “My goal was to win a state title last year and I was going to do anything to make that happen. Tristan also trusted me by throwing me the ball and giving me a chance to do some good things with the ball, and the coaches called great plays that night.”
The defeat didn’t take away from Hall’s performance though, as several high profile programs began chasing him. USC, UCLA and Nebraska all joined the pursuit for Hall on Dec. 10, just one day after his incredible performance against Madison.
“It was crazy,” Hall said. “I received three offers in one day. I was mainly just happy that schools were starting to recognize my ability to play.”
Hall’s on-field mentality and ability to raise his level of play against top competition is specifically something the schools that offered him noticed.
“When it comes to big games I’m able to get a feel for how things are happening,” Hall said. “It’s almost as if the game slows down for me.”
He also has a strong work ethic, pushing himself and not cutting any corners. It’s something he prides himself on, especially as he heads into his senior season.
“I’m working to get better at every area of my game and improving the little things so I can be better and more prepared for my senior season,” Hall said.
Calabasas will be replacing a talented core of players from its 2016 team, but Hall is confident that the Coyotes can build on their 14-1 season. As a senior, he plans to be an example for his teammates.
“We are already hard at work,” Hall said. “And I think that is the secret, just hard work. If we practice hard, lift weights hard, listen to our coaches and leave everything on the field on game day, we will be successful.”
Since his three-offer day, Hall has added even more offers, including Oregon, Louisville and Hawaii. Nebraska can feel good about where it falls on Hall’s list though, as the Huskers have stood out to talented wide receiver through the recruiting process.
“All of the schools are standing out to me right now,” Hall said. “I’m going to take some visits over the spring and summer to help me make my decision. I do like what the Nebraska football program is doing currently.”
Hall has not spoken with wide receivers coach Keith Williams yet but hopes to soon. When the two do finally get a chance to talk, Hall already knows what questions he would like answered.
“I will be looking at what type of offense they run and the relationship between the coaches and their players,” Hall said. “And, of course, I’ll be looking at the fan base.”
As for when Hall plans to make his final decision, he expects to wait a bit through the spring and summer until his visits are complete.
“It will be a big decision for me and my family,” Hall said. “I’d like to have a decision made by October or November.”
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