The562’s coverage of Jordan Athletics is sponsored by John Ross, Class of 2013
Jordan Washington’s athletic accomplishments in 2022 didn’t go unnoticed and the Jordan High junior running back verbally committed to Arizona this week.
“It’s almost like a dream come true, but at the same time I never really dreamed it,” Washington said. “Recruiting here wasn’t really good, and then everything changed, so I was very surprised. Arizona is a great school and program. I put faith in it, gave it time, and it all worked out.”
Washington got Arizona’s attention last season by rushing for 1,388 yards (13.5 ypc) and 18 touchdowns. He also garnered buzz at the CIF State Track & Field Championships last year. Washington finished second in the 100 and fourth in the 200.
“I was looking for a different atmosphere that could feel like home at the same time and when I went on my visit (to Arizona) that’s what they gave me,” Washington said. “The coaches were really good to me and treated me like family.”
The official visit was in November when Washington went to see Arizona host Washington State— another school that was interested in his services. Washington said he had a good time at the game while sitting in the student section.
“It was great,” Washington said. “It was my first time going to a college game in a different state and they had amazing energy. That’s something I want to be a part of.”
Washington also wants to run track in college, and after Arizona coaches told him they’d rather he just concentrate on football for a year before getting back on the track, Washington said he’d listen to other schools who are willing to let him be a two-sport student-athlete. Jordan football coach Jon Nielsen thinks more opportunities are imminent for Washington.
“It’s relationships because that’s what this business is… It’s nothing different than real life,” Nielsen said of recruiting. “It’s about who you know and who you trust. Now (Washington) is committed and now more schools are going to come. It’s going to be an onslaught.”
Jordan legend Ortege Jenkins also went to Arizona two decades ago. His jersey is being retired next week.
