Collegiate Times

Theron Norma, playing quarterback for Hermitage High, tries to escape the grasp of a Meadowbrook defender on Sept. 12, 2008

Virginia Tech football dipped their hands into Hermitage High School's successful program once again when they received a commitment from safety Theron Norman to play for the Hokies.

Norman was recruited heavily within the ACC and also received offers to play for the University of Connecticut as well as Syracuse. However, after one visit to Tech's campus, it all just seemed to click.

"When I came up for an unofficial visit, it just felt like home," Norman said. "The coaches and players had a huge impact on my decision."

The 6'3", 190-pound athlete verbally committed to Tech last July along with high school teammate and potential defensive end Duan Perez-Means.

The Richmond native brings his size and remarkable playmaking ability to both sides of the ball and provides versatility on the field.

"His overall skill level is exceptional," said Hermitage head coach Patrick Kane. "The skill paired with his height really makes him a valuable player, especially at defensive back."

Norman's junior season was more than enough to impress the Hokie scouts. Playing in his second full season on varsity, he returned as starting free safety and played wide receiver on offense. In 13 games, Norman was able to rack up 30 receptions, four of which were touchdowns. The tenacious defender also wrapped up 32 tackles and pulled down three interceptions.

Norman is just the latest addition to a reputable list of Hermitage football players to continue their careers at Tech -- a list that includes former offensive lineman Duane Brown, currently with the Houston Texans.

"Knowing the success our school has had in sending players to Tech definitely sets a level of expectations I feel like I need to meet," Norman said.

He won't have to face those expectations alone, however. At Tech, he'll be reunited with former teammate and current redshirt freshman quarterback Joseph "Ju-Ju" Clayton, along with Alonzo Tweety.

"Knowing people going in makes it a little easier to transition from high school to college," Kane said. "He'll have people he can go to and relate with already there."

His size and work ethic set him up to have an immediate impression on the team.

"He's always working hard and looking to better himself as a player," said Clayton, a longtime friend of Norman. "I think he could have an impact on special teams and could be used as a true freshman."

Norman hopes to be able to prove himself to the coaches and work his way up to be a key contributor in the Hokies' secondary.

"I really want to play free safety," Norman said. "I love to play defense, and I think I would be a really good fit at the safety position."

And as off-season training gets underway, Norman and the team is looking to build on its Orange Bowl win.

"I knew in coming here, I'll be given the opportunity to win," Norman said. "I'm looking forward to helping this team make a shot at a national championship."