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2024 S Marquis Gallegos Discusses Big Summer & Notre Dame
2024 Chaminade High School (Calif.) safety Marquis Gallegos has been busy this summer as he’s not satisfied with having a national recruitment.
The 6-foot-1, 175-pounder wants to expand his game, which includes becoming better in coverage.
"The big thing is to get bigger, faster and stronger,” Gallegos told ISD. “I've really focused on my footwork and being more comfortable in man coverage as well."
Gallegos saw his hard work pay off as he competed in the nation’s biggest 7-on-7 tournament of the summer in Las Vegas at OT7.
"That experience was pretty cool,” stated Gallegos. “It was put together well and the biggest thing for me going out there was being able to get those quality reps. It didn't matter what team you were playing because every team was full of four and five-star players with great receivers and quarterbacks. I wanted to go out there to get quality reps and it really benefitted me."
The four-star prospect was recognized by making a list of standout performers by some outlets, but more importantly, Gallegos proved to himself he can play with anyone.
"I think I stacked up really well,” said Gallegos. “I did well over the course of the whole tournament. I got a chance to play man coverage against some of the top-tier dudes. I felt good and confident in myself."
Confidence is always key for safeties and Gallegos returned to California with a ton of it, which should provide a nice momentum boost heading into his junior season.
"It helps a lot,” Gallegos stated. “There was competition everywhere with all the top dudes. If I'm competing against the top guys and doing well, then I should be dominating back home."
On the recruiting front, the West Hills native has remained in contact with Notre Dame and Chris O’Leary along with Cal, Oklahoma, Oregon State and USC.
"It's the same thing,” explained Gallegos, who visited South Bend for the spring game. “Notre Dame is trying to get me out there for more visits and they've made it known I'm a priority and they want me there."
Forming strong relationships has been at the forefront of Gallegos’ recruitment and O’Leary has done a great job to this point.
"We're definitely building a bond,” Gallegos said. “It's great communicating with him and when September hits, then we can really start to talk."
Gallegos has seen his recruitment take off to a national level and it’s something he (and every recruit) has dreamed of for years.
"It has hit me,” Gallegos stated. “It's a blessing. I always have to remain humble, but it is pretty cool knowing I'm one of the top guys and the hard work is paying off."
As for what’s next, Gallegos will plan out a few visits during the season as he wants to experience game day environments.
"I'm looking to get out to a couple of games during the season, but I'm not sure where yet,” said Gallegos.”It's all planning with myself and my dad right now to see where we can fit stuff in."
Offers: Arizona, Cal, Colorado, Fresno State, Michigan, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oregon, Oregon State, San Diego State, San Jose State, UCLA, USC and Washington
Ranking
ISD: 91 (four-star)
247: 88 (three-star)
Rivals: 5.6 (three-star)
ESPN: N/R
Composite: 89.76 (four-star)
Sophomore Highlights
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Top of the World Fitted Hat