Pitt FB Recruiting
NY Offensive Lineman Gonclaves to Visit Pitt
Pat Narduzzi and staff would like to add anywhere from 4 to 5 offensive linemen to the 2019 recruiting class. When 6-foot-6 inch, 305 pound offensive tackle prospect Matt Gonclaves from Eastport-South Manor High School (Eastport, NY) walked onto the field on June 9th at Pitt’s prospect camp, he was hard to miss. He performed so well in one on one drills, the staff took notice and rewarded him with a scholarship offer.
The mammoth lineman will visit Pitt on July 30th and 31st and he’s anxious to learn more about the Pitt football program.
“I was first introduced to Pitt by Coach (Tim) Salem. He’s been with me through the entire process. Coach is the one that really convinced my father and I to camp at Pitt as well,” said Gonclaves. “It really worked out well. I attended camp in early June and they ended up offering me a scholarship.”
“I had never been to Pittsburgh before. I loved the city when I was there. It was beautiful. I saw the south side facilities they share with the Pittsburgh Steelers but I’m looking forward to getting a great feel for the school and campus this week.”
When asked about his strengths as an offensive lineman, he stated, “I’m a strong pass blocker. I’m still working on my skills. I think I could truly learn from Coach (Dave) Borbley. I think I could eventually develop into a great power lineman for the Panthers.”
Gonclaves has accrued seven scholarship offers: Pitt, Connecticut, Toledo, Bryant, Buffalo, Villanova and Stoney Brook. “I think that over here in Long Island and the northeast, a lot of good prospects are overlooked. I’m just glad Pitt got to see what I’m capable of doing on the field,” he said.
Gonclaves was asked if he would consider a commitment during his visit and he replied, “It’s a high chance (a commitment). I still want to talk it over with my parents but I’m strongly considering Pitt. I’ve been thinking about them a lot.”
Harry Psaros can be found on twitter at @PittGuru
