Recruiting Wednesday: Yough's CJ Waldier commits to Edinboro to play football
Written by: Ed DiOrio
January 20, 2021
Tags: CJ Waldier Austin Caudill Sean Knight Jonas King
C.J. Waldier caught 10 touchdown passes for Yough last season. (Photo by www.westernpasports.com)
Although Yough still is working to become an annual WPIAL playoff contender, its seen its share of talent the last several years. Players like Dustin Shoaf and Gamal Marballie have each put up many dazzling performances during their time on Cougar Mountain.
Another player on that list is C.J. Waldier. The senior linebacker and receiver committed to Edinboro University last week.
“I had a really great offer,” Waldier said about choosing to play for th Fighting Scots. “I really felt wanted and had a great visit. The coaches constantly communicated with me. They sat me down and talked to me for a while on my visit. I just felt wanted and liked what they had to offer.”
The 6-foot-2, 198-pounder is one of the most versatile players in the area. In seven games this season, Waldier ranked among the top receivers in the WPIAL making 46 catches for 668 yards and 10 touchdowns. On defense he made over 100 tackles and intercepted a pair of passes.
“I credit my family for supporting me through the thick and thin,” Waldier said. “I also credit all my coaches who pushed me and made me a better athlete and person. I have been given the option to play on either side of the ball.”
Edinboro is a part of the highly-regarded Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Along with other Division II schools, fellow PSAC members Mercyhurst and Clarion were among the offers Waldier received. Even though he didn't choose his school until after the season, his focus was solely on helping his team last fall.
“I wanted to perform for my teammates and win ball games,” he said. “I obviously wanted to perform well for scouts but my main focus was to make the playoffs. My mental status remained strong because I knew if I performed well, the colleges would find me.”
While the Cougars couldn’t fulfill their playoff hopes, Waldier did everything he could. His efforts earned him All-State, and All-Conference in his final campaign. With all of Waldier’s accomplishments, he’s aware of the work ahead of him.
“I need to become bigger, stronger, and faster."
Waldier will major in nursing at Edinboro.
Westmoreland Recruiting News
- Former Jeannette star Robert Kennedy is leaving East Carolina and transferring to Old Dominion in Norfok, Va. He played in five games last year recording 13 tackles and three pass breakups.
- Waldier’s teammate, Austin Caudill, was offered by Clarion. The 6-foot-4 tackle is a two-time all-conference selection.
- Hempfield linebacker Sean Knight also made his collegiate decision yesterday. The three-year Spartan starter is going to California University of PA.
- Mt. Pleasant receiver Jonas King is headed to Mercyhurst University. King was a 2020 all-conference honoree.