BREAKING | 2022 DL Donovan Hinish Commits to Notre Dame

Notre Dame has hit Western PA hard over the last few years and 2022 Central Catholic (Pa.) defensive lineman Donovan Hinish‍ is the latest to pick the Fighting Irish. 

The 6-foot-1, 277-pounder committed to Notre Dame on Thursday night and went public with his decision on Friday evening. 

"The culture is special," Hinish told ISD. "There is no other place where you have fans all over the country and supporting you wherever you go.

"My favorite thing is the smoke when you run out of the tunnel and everyone is screaming. I look at it in awe. It's crazy. I love it." 

Committing to Notre Dame wasn't a huge surprise, but Hinish still managed to shock his parents when he told them the news.

"My dad was standing right next to me and honest to God, it sounded like so much came off his back," Hinish said. "He was just so happy. 

"My mom was driving when I told her and she started screaming." 

Defensive line coach Mike Elston is well known in the Hinish household as he recruited and landed Hinish's older brother Kurt. 

And the chance to play for Elston was something the younger Hinish couldn't pass up. 

"I'm really excited and I've known him for a long time," said Hinish. "He's a great guy and been a great help throughout the whole process. I can't wait." 

New defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman also has Hinish's attention as he looks forward to building a relationship with him. 

"He's a really cool guy and I like him a lot," Hinish stated. "From what I've heard, he's a go-getter and a guy who puts on his hat and goes to work." 

The Irish were always the school to beat and now Hinish will not only get to carry on the tradition for Notre Dame, but also in his own house.

"It just means a lot that I'm going to carry on the tradition and it's crazy to even think I'm going to play at the same place my brother did and it's Notre Dame," explained Hinish. "It's something super special to my heart." 

And yes, Notre Dame fans can expect Hinish to bring his Steel City work ethic to South Bend.

"Notre Dame is going to get something even better than my brother," said Hinish. "I'm going to keep working until the day is gone. 

"I'm not a big talker, but just know I'm going to put my hat on and go to work." 

Film Don’t Lie | Donovan Hinish