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Plaine Dealer

COMMITMENT

<H1 class=red>Copley's Carter opts for Orange

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Tuesday, August 09, 2005 Tim Rogers

Plain Dealer Reporter
Copley running back Delone Carter, who has an opportunity to become the school's all-time leading rusher and is regarded as one of the top running backs in Northeast Ohio, had made an oral commitment to attend Syracuse .

Carter, 5-9, 200 pounds, rushed for 2,556 yards and 28 touchdowns last year in helping the Indians compile a 10-3 record and reach the Division II regional finals.

Although he did not make it official until Monday, Carter said he was convinced Syracuse would be his choice when he made an unofficial visit in May.

"It was hard not to commit right then," Carter said. "The coaches were very honest, and they made me feel welcome. Plus, the school has a great tradition."

Carter, who played two seasons at Archbishop Hoban, said he narrowed his final choices to Syracuse, Kentucky and Wisconsin.

Carter, who said he would probably major in business, needs approximately 2,500 yards to surpass Lloyd Garden as Copley's all-time leading rusher. If he reaches that goal, he will have accomplished it in two seasons. Garden played four.

Copley coach Dan Boarman said he expects Carter to carry the ball between 20 and 25 times a game this year.

"Delone is comfortable with that," said Boarman. "That is a lot of carries, especially over the course of a season."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter:

trogers@plaind.com, 1-800-683-7348