Washington went into Servite High School in 2015 and found a hidden gem in long-snapper, AJ Carty. and the last two seasons Carty has played in every single game handling snapping duties. Again, they’ve turned their attentions to Servite and this time it’s to keep tabs on long-snapper, Jacob Garcia.
Some may wonder why this position is so very important on the team; they’re called “special teams” for a reason. And while these guys aren’t making big tackles, picking off passes, throwing touchdown passes, and racing up the field, their ability to execute their duties can sometimes determine the outcome of a game.
Bad snaps can cause a kicker to miss a field goal, PAT, and even cause turnovers.
Washington coaches know the value of a good long-snapper, and he’s also a senior — so getting a guy who can take care of this job on the field for the Huskies this year is a bigger deal than most realize.
Enter Garcia.
At 6-1, 230 Jacob Garcia is a sturdy and skilled long-snapper. He’s been training as a pro-style snapper (snap and block) which is what Washington runs on punts. Garcia has attended two special camps at Washington both this year and last, and both times he earned MVP. Back in June he won the snapping competition at Washington, hence, the MVP honors.
“Washington is a special place and I can definitely see myself furthering my football and academic career there”, Garcia told Realdawg.com this week, “Great coaching staff that looks at forming a good football player and even a better person after football.”
“They did tell me they will need to offer a 2020 snapper”, Garcia added, “I’m just waiting patiently and praying to see what options I will have and see what school fits best for me and my family.”
Garcia could easily walk-on at a couple of schools who have also shown interest (Michigan, Utah State), but if Washington offers, then it’s highly likely they would soar to the top of his list.
“I am just staying my course and continuing to get ready for my senior season…waiting patiently and hoping the best outcome.”, he said.
Servite is the home-school not only of Carty, but also Keith Taylor and Julius Irvin, so the Husky pipeline there is strong, “This will be my 3rd year starting on varsity. I also lettered in rugby and track & field ( shot put & discus) last year.”
Garcia is ranked #3 by Chris Rubio and #4 by Kohls Kicking. He trains with Matt Wigley.
Washington is definitely expected to continue watching and recruiting this position during the fall, so keep a close eye on Garcia in the event he earns that offer.
1️⃣9️⃣ days! ☄️ ? @MattWigleyLS @ServiteFootball pic.twitter.com/f1hM74T0Kf
— Jacob Garcia (@_jacob_garcia__) August 11, 2019
