Update: Gary Jennings has committed to West Virginia.

Update: Gary Jennings told Michael Stern in a text that he is receiving additional strong interest from the University of Maryland and Notre Dame. When asked about what it would be like staying close to home, Jennings said it would be “pretty cool.” Maryland has not yet offered him a scholarship.

Gary Jennings and the Colonial Forge Eagles were one game away from advancing to the State 6A Title Championship in 2013.

“Last football season was successful, however it was also incomplete.”

Now, while the wide receiver looks to go the distance this season, he will also be looking for a place to play at the next level.

The 6-2 wideout from Stafford, Virginia has received 11 offers so far, but the Division 1A schools are at the top of his list.

West Virginia University, Wisconsin, University of Virginia, Vanderbilt, and Boston College, in no particular order, are the schools that have impressed so far, Jennings said in a text message on Sunday.

Check out the profile on Vanderbilt commit Justin Skule

“All of these schools are great. It is really a difficult decision to make, however I really feel fortunate to have this problem,” Jennings said.

He thinks the recruiting process is going to get “interesting” down the stretch, and he is keeping an open mind while hearing any new offers.

Jennings may not only be looking to go the distance on the field. He said that distance is not a factor in his choice for where he wants to go to school.

“My family supports me no matter what I choose,” Jennings said. “I am looking for a school which will enable me to receive a great education. I also want to be able to compete and play my first year and contribute in helping the team win football games.”

Jennings is a versatile football player. In addition to playing wide receiver, Jennings has seen some snaps as a quarterback. This makes him an appealing option for some schools.

“They like my size, speed, and skills displayed at WR and QB… Coaches have expressed interest in playing me at the wildcat formation as well,” Jennings said.

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While he has an eye to the future, Jennings is focusing on his play at wideout and this season.

“I see myself as someone who is able to stretch the field and contribute to various aspects of the game while doing it intelligently,” Jennings said. “I compete against myself. I’m always striving to make myself better in all areas.”

From playing at age seven with the Laurel Panthers to missing the championship by one game, Jennings has had a great football career.

His senior year will contain a few more tests than his season with the Panthers. He will be looking to bring his squad to the championship, he will be looking to improve his game, and he will be looking to pick a school with a successful football team and prestigious academic program.

In more ways than one, Gary Jennings will be looking to go the distance.

-Michael Stern

@MSternTLB