Kirtland’s Matthew Finkler on Wednesday signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his education and football career at Bowling Green State University.
The Falcons began recruiting Finkler last spring and he developed a strong bond with the BGSU coaching staff.
“I felt the most comfortable with BG,” he said. “I have been talking to them since last spring. I have a very good relationship with all of the coaches, especially my recruiting coach and linebackers coach, Tom Kaufman.”
Finkler, who expects to redshirt as a freshman, also was impressed with Bowling Green’s facilities.
A three-sport standout at Kirtland, Finkler was a four-year letterman and was part of a Kirtland program that played in four straight state championship games. The Hornets were 58-2 with two state titles to their credit with Finkler on the roster.
Kirtland head coach Tiger LaVerde saw Finkler develop into a downhill, physical, hard-working player with a very high football IQ.
“He got better every year attacking the line of scrimmage and also reacting to plays quicker,” LaVerde said. “He also became better at blitzing.”
As a senior, Finkler recorded 160 tackles and 10 quarterback sacks to boost his career totals to 406 tackles and 21 sacks.
He was named All-Ohio in 2013 and 2014 as well as all-district, all-conference and he was Lake County’s Defensive MVP.
Finkler, who is undecided on a major, is eager to being his college career.
“My goals are to make the most out of my four or five years and build relationships with teammates and coaches that will last forever,” he said. “Do well academically as well and graduate with a degree.”
Jordan Ianiro signs with Cleveland State
Kirtland's Jordan Ianiro on Wednesday signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his education and soccer career at Cleveland State University.
Click here for more on Ianiro's decision.
