Owen Strebig Enrolls Early at Notre Dame, Chooses the Irish Over Florida State

Introduction

Owen Strebig, a standout offensive tackle from Waukesha, Wisconsin, has embarked on an exciting journey by enrolling early at the University of Notre Dame. His decision to join the Fighting Irish, over offers from prestigious programs like Florida State University (FSU), marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning football career. As he steps onto the Notre Dame campus, Strebig brings with him a blend of athletic prowess, academic ambition, and a commitment to excellence that aligns seamlessly with the university's storied traditions.

Early Life and High School Career

Born and raised in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Owen attended Catholic Memorial High School, where he quickly distinguished himself as a formidable presence on the football field. Standing at an imposing 6'8" and weighing 295 pounds, his physical attributes made him a natural fit for the offensive tackle position. Throughout his high school tenure, Strebig primarily played left tackle, contributing significantly to his team's impressive performances. In his junior year, he helped lead Catholic Memorial to a 9-3 record and a Wisconsin Division 4 state semifinal appearance. His sophomore year was equally noteworthy, with the team achieving a 13-1 record and finishing as the state runner-up.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Owen's leadership and work ethic did not go unnoticed. He was honored with the Joe Thomas Award, recognizing him as the top senior offensive lineman in Wisconsin.

Recruitment Journey

Owen's exceptional high school performances garnered attention from top-tier college football programs nationwide. Notably, Florida State University extended a scholarship offer during his unofficial visit, highlighting their keen interest in adding him to their roster. However, Owen's relationship with Notre Dame had deep roots. Notre Dame's offensive line coach, Joe Rudolph, was the first to initiate a recruiting conversation with Owen during his freshman year at Catholic Memorial, back when Rudolph was coaching at Wisconsin. This early connection played a pivotal role in Owen's recruitment journey.

Choosing Notre Dame

After careful consideration, Owen committed to the University of Notre Dame, citing both academic and athletic factors as influential in his decision. He expressed a strong desire to study at the Mendoza College of Business, attracted by its renowned programs and the unique alumni network it offers. "The alumni connection is special," Owen noted. "On the football side of it, I’m going to be able to get developed and play for a national championship year in and year out. That’s the standard at Notre Dame." The decision to commit to Notre Dame over Florida State, Wisconsin, and Miami was influenced by several factors. Notre Dame's rich history of producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen played a crucial role. Additionally, the university's emphasis on balancing athletics with academics resonated with Strebig's personal values and long-term aspirations. While Florida State presented a compelling opportunity, the alignment between Notre Dame's program and Strebig's goals ultimately guided his choice.

Early Enrollment and Future Prospects

Demonstrating a proactive approach to his collegiate career, Owen enrolled early at Notre Dame. This decision allows him to acclimate to the university environment, get a head start on his academic pursuits, and begin participating in the football team's conditioning program ahead of the traditional schedule. He expressed enthusiasm about working out in the soon-to-be-completed Jack and Kathy Shields Family Hall football complex, anticipating the state-of-the-art facilities to further his development.

Player Profile and Scouting Report

Owen's physical attributes are complemented by his agility and comfort in space, traits that are highly valued in an offensive tackle, especially on the left side. His length and ease of movement make him a formidable presence on the field. As a four-star recruit, Owen was ranked as the top recruit in Wisconsin, the 15th ranked offensive lineman overall, and the 105th ranked recruit nationally by Rivals. As Strebig transitions to the collegiate level, expectations are high. His physical attributes, combined with his technical proficiency and work ethic, position him as a candidate for early playing time. The coaching staff at Notre Dame anticipates that Strebig will make an immediate impact, contributing to the team's pursuit of national prominence.

Personal Insights and Community Involvement

Off the field, Owen is known for his humility and dedication. He has been involved in community service initiatives through his high school and has expressed a desire to continue such involvement at Notre Dame. His commitment to personal growth and community engagement aligns well with the values upheld by the university.

A Glimpse into Howard Hall

While Owen will not reside in Howard Hall, as it is a female dormitory, it's worth noting the unique charm and traditions of this residence. Built in 1924, Howard Hall was the first building on Notre Dame's campus to incorporate Gothic architecture, featuring two distinctive arches and decorative stone carvings. Originally a men's residence, it was converted to a female dormitory in 1987. Affectionately known as the "Ducks," residents of Howard Hall pride themselves on their strong sense of community and tradition. Given the close-knit nature of Notre Dame's campus life, it's likely that Owen will become familiar with the vibrant spirit of Howard Hall during his time at the university.

Conclusion

Owen Strebig's journey from Waukesha, Wisconsin, to the University of Notre Dame is a testament to his hard work, talent, and strategic decision-making. By choosing the Fighting Irish over other prestigious programs like Florida State University and the University of Wisconsin, he has positioned himself to thrive both academically and athletically. As he embarks on this new chapter, the Notre Dame community eagerly anticipates the contributions he will make on and off the field.