A Little Belief Goes A Long Way
Notre Dame almost let defensive back Shaun Crawford get away during the recruiting process. The Ohio native was committed to Michigan, but a change in defensive coordinators and Brian Kelly’s involvement led the St. Edward High School star to South Bend.
“I just think God has a plan and fortunately the DC at that time is no longer here," said Crawford. "I think that’s why I am here. Everything happens for a reason. Coach Kelly has always believed in me and still believes in me.
“It was Coach Kelly and Coach (Brian) VanGorder. I came here after my sophomore year with the DC, who is no longer here, it wasn’t the best visit. After that visit, Coach Kelly got me on the phone, and he told me he wanted me. I knew if the head coach wanted me, then that’s all that mattered.”
Kelly took over Crawford’s recruitment from the moment Notre Dame expressed interest for the second time, and it made all the difference.
“When I got the offer, it was Coach Kelly on the phone," the Lakewood native said. "He talked to me, and when I came up for a visit again, he was there. He’s always been the same guy to me and shown love. I’m thankful for him.”
Through four games this season under new defensive coordinator Mike Elko, Crawford has had a hand in four turnovers forced by the Irish defense. The 5-foot-9, 176-pounder is pleased with his performance, but is quick to thank the people who stuck by him over the past two years as injuries sidelined him for virtually all of his first two seasons in South Bend.
“I want to thank God for this opportunity and all the people who have supported me during my time here,” stated Crawford. “The coaches, strength staff, training staff and my family. It’s amazing to see all the hard work come into light.”
Crawford’s teammates made a huge difference, which got him over the hump at times. Now, they are all reaping the rewards on Saturdays.
“Faith played a huge part in it,” Crawford said. “I was definitely down numerous times. I had to rely on faith and I got into scripture. I had to think about my purpose and how much I had already gone through.
“My teammates have seen me do the things I am doing on Saturdays. It’s just exciting that the world and fans can see it because I’ve only been able to practice in camp my freshman year and a little bit last year.
“It’s exciting that they are behind me. When I was down, I needed them, and they were behind me. It’s great to see they are still there for me and can push me to be better.”
Probably more than anyone, Notre Dame captain Drue Tranquill knows the struggles Crawford battled working his way back from an ACL and Achilles injury. Tranquill not only worked side-by-side with Crawford in rehab, but has embraced Crawford’s quiet leadership.
“I have a greater appreciation for it having gone through it,” explained Tranquill. “It's rigorous, it's tough. There are highs and lows. There are points where you question, 'Is this really for me?' But I think Shaun embodies the traits we preach on a day-to-day basis, our five traits of excellence. He embodies resiliency and grit.
“I'm very, very impressed with how he went through his process. You don't see a lot of kids like him, and I'm so happy to finally see his hard work come to fruition and pay off for him.”
As for Crawford, he attacks every day of practice the same as he did with his rehab.
“Nothing changes,” stated Crawford. “My work ethic hasn’t changed. All the things I do on a daily basis haven't changed. It’s exciting to finally let the world see and to play for Notre Dame. It’s just been my dream.”
After last week's 38-18 victory in East Lansing, Kelly gave Crawford the game ball for his game-changing forced fumble and recovery at the goal line. The moment meant a lot to everyone in the program, but Crawford knows he isn’t done.
“It was exciting to get the game ball in that type of game and atmosphere,” said Crawford. “It was kind of the icing on the cake for that moment and day. Not knowing how big that play was in the moment, it was crazy. It was good to see my teammates jump around and Coach Kelly presenting the game ball.
“I told him I was thankful for him believing in me and for the opportunity to still be on this team and play. I thank Coach Kelly for all he has done and how he has stood by me.”