The 'Len' Zone
Notre Dame Spring Football
Why Notre Dame?
A behind-the-scenes look at Notre Dame's spring football development, featuring exclusive insights from recruits and transfers as they adapt to the Fighting Irish program.

by Len Clark

Spring Practice Press Conference
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Specialist Support: Noah Burnette's Transfer Journey
1
Coach Connection
Special Teams Coach Biagi's expertise was a "no-brainer" factor in Burnette's decision.
2
Technical Refinement
Burnette is working on specific adjustments from last season.
3
Climate Adaptation
Still adjusting to South Bend's wind and snow conditions.
Miami to Midwest: Davion Dixon's Transition
Weather Adjustment
Quickly adapting to dramatic climate change from Miami
Rehab Focus
Building upper body strength during injury recovery
Mental Development
Taking "mental reps" and walking through plays with coaches
Program Prestige
Recognized Notre Dame's special tradition during recruitment
Family Legacy: Micah Gilbert's Notre Dame Connection
1
Family Ties
Cousin Austin Webster's Notre Dame career influenced Gilbert's decision.
2
Recruitment
Coaching staff and tradition sealed his commitment.
3
Current Focus
Taking practice step-by-step, staying present.
Culture Shift: Will Pauling's Notre Dame Experience
Responsibility-Driven Culture
Pauling notices higher standards with "no drop-off" in expectations.
Daily Improvement
Coach Washington emphasizes fundamentals for "1% better every day."
Stadium Atmosphere
Even as a former opponent, the "all green" game environment felt like home.
Veteran Guidance: Karson Hobbs' Support System

Ask Questions
Hobbs turns to veteran players when concepts aren't clear.

Find Mentors
Jason Onye described as a "dog" - a reliable teammate.

Open Communication
Building connections with experienced players accelerates development.
Dream Realized: Cree Thomas' Notre Dame Journey

Dream School
Thomas expresses gratitude for Notre Dame opportunity
Film Study
Regular sessions with Leonard Moore enhance understanding
Recovery Process
Complete immersion in professional development routines
Faith and Football: Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa's Decision

Spiritual Guidance
Long talks with family and God influenced his decision.

Emotional Connection
Notre Dame "felt right" during decision process.

Linebacker Mentorship
Veterans Kingston, JB, and Junior provide guidance.
Following Faith: Teddy Rezac's Path to Notre Dame
Faith-Guided Decision
Rezac followed spiritual guidance to Notre Dame.
Coach Freeman's Wisdom
"Don't let disruptions become distractions."
Mental Discipline
Focus remains on development despite challenges.
Speed Development: Preston Zinter's Athletic Goals

Play Fast
Primary goal transitioning from high school level
Self-Assessment
Clear understanding of improvement areas
Performance Focus
Determination to "ball out" in practice opportunities