It seemed like yesterday when Sly Johnson from Premier Athletes claimed that he had the next great football prospect.
At the age of 10, it was tough to tell what future “little” Xavier Restrepo would have, but if you went by dedication, work ethic and athletic ability, this was someone who was not just going to be someone that would blend in.
From his youth days right up until high school, Restrepo was always doubted. Too small, not fast enough and while he played the sport to its fullest, his college days would be at the low Division 1 or Division 2 level.
Coconut Creek Monarch, St. Thomas Aquinas and Deerfield Beach all showcased a playmaker who would outwork you and rise above all the negatives. In addition, his play in the off-season with 7-on-7 teams and training with Premier Athletes kept him in the spotlight,
When Manny Diaz and his coaches offered the 5-8, 165-pounder, many felt it was a false offer. There was no way that this undersized football prospect would ever compete at the Power 5 level. It wasn’t logical to those who didn’t know what ticked inside his mind and body.
As Johnson worked with him every weekend, Restrepo’s game went to another level – and then another level after that. The student/athlete that very few were paying attention to was ready to embark on a journey that very few believed he was ready for.
As a true freshman in Coral Gables, he played in nine games his true freshman season and had one reception for 12 yards. The next season, he played in all 12 games, recording 24 receptions for 373 yards and two touchdowns. In 2022, he played in seven games, due to an injury, with three starts, finishing the year with 21 receptions for 240 yards and two touchdowns. But it was last season – his junior year – that all those who criticized him in the past – started to jump on the bandwagon.
During a dismal 6-6 season, the now 5-10, 200-pound slot receiver delivered in a major way. The player who everyone said was overmatched for major college football, silenced everyone when he caught 85 balls for 1,092 yards and six touchdowns, earning him a spot as a first team All Atlantic Coast Conference selection.
His knack of being that well-rounded student/athlete has always paid off as he graduated in December and set an example for those young men and women who are doubted.
With an option to go to the next level – or head to another college – Restrepo showed his belief in head coach Mario Cristobal and the University of Miami program as he returned for a final year and an opportunity to finish what he started. Beginning the 2024 season 52 receptions shy of passing Mike Harley (182) to become all-time leader in school history.
On top of all those accolades, he is setting himself up for the future with a Master’s Degree.
SECOND ANNUAL FOOTBALL CAMP A SUCCESS
It was only fitting that the person who had worked so hard to achieve – on and off of the football field – gave back once again.
Last Saturday, Restrepo held his second annual football camp for youngsters at Ives Park in North Miami Dade.
Hundreds of future football stars came out to learn, compete and have plenty of fun – while Restrepo, his mother, Ashley and father Jaime along with several volunteers and sponsors gave a group of kids something to remember.
“My son Ethan has been playing football for a short time,” said Charles Fishbein. “But I will tell you out of all the events we have been to, this was by far the best run, and everyone had such a great time.”
Besides instruction, there were special events that awarded prizes and all the campers were treated to some delicious food.
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For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..