BOCA RATONMallory, Javian, is not happy.
In Thursday night’s preseason loss against four-time defending state champion Chaminade-Madonna, the Hurricanes running back commit from West Boca Raton High broke off a run of almost 40 yards and scored a late touchdown, but he was not pleased with his play.
After Thursday’s game, Mallory told the South Florida Sun Sentinel, “I think there’s always room to grow.” I fumbled the ball today, for example. Yes, I fumbled even though I scored. I fumbled despite having 100 yards. Therefore, I still need to improve on a few areas.
Before enrolling at UM the next year, Mallory, a four-star prospect based on 247Sports composite rankings, worked to hone his skills during the offseason.
Mallory, who assisted West Boca Raton in winning its first state championship the previous year, cited speed, agility, suppleness, and simply keeping my body fresh. In the books, I emerged from the game (unharmed). I consider myself fortunate, and I hope to play 15 more games like this one.
During the defeat, Mallory, a Sun Sentinel All-County selection, displayed his strength and speed. Late in the game, he broke through the defensive line for a short-yardage touchdown after evading the Chaminade defense for a significant gain.
“It’s an honor to coach a guy like that, man,” said Mark-Antony Richards, the running backs coach for West Boca Raton. He really does make my job a lot easier.
Richards, a former standout recruit who attended Auburn and UCF, also commended Mallory’s character outside of the field.
Richards stated, “I genuinely think that guy is prepared to go to any lengths to win on this field and leave a legacy.” That man wishes to make a lasting impression.
Richards went on to say that he is a man who leads both by example and by words. I haven’t seen many people with that level of passion.
When Mallory committed in March, he passed up offers from Florida, Louisville, and Notre Dame, among other schools, in favor of Miami. He has been strengthening his bond with the Hurricanes coaching staff ever since.
Mallory said, “I talk a lot with (UM running backs coach Matt) Merritt.” Coach Mario Cristobal and I text virtually every day. Once or twice a week, we will FaceTime. Down there, it’s exactly like family.
Mallory stated that he expects a lot from this year’s team and that he intends to attend the most of the Hurricanes’ home games, if not all of them.
Mallory declared, “I’m ready to watch them take control.” Miami is still not it, according to a lot of discussion. However, I think Coach Cristobal is doing a fantastic job of steering the program. And if not this year, shoot. We’ll undoubtedly win a national title when I’m there.
