Turner Intrigued By Opportunity At Notre Dame

Last weekend, 2018 Saline (Mich.) standout Emmett Turner‍ got one of those pleasant surprises life tends to throw at you on occasion as the 6-foot-4, 200-pounder was offered a chance to be a preferred walk-on at Notre Dame.

“It kind of came out of the blue,” Turner told Irish Sports Daily. “One of the coaches followed me on Twitter and messaged me. It was a nice shock.” 

Turner is familiar with the Irish program, as he made the short drive to South Bend many times as a youngster.   

“When I was younger, I went to their football camp every summer,” stated Turner. “I’ve been to a few games, but I don’t have any huge connections to Notre Dame or anything.” 

The Irish haven’t mentioned a specific position yet, but Turner feels it could be on the offensive side of the ball. 

“I am assuming tight end,” Turner said. “Most bigger schools want me as a tight end. As long as I am playing football, I’m fine with whatever.” 

The Michigan native does hold a couple offers to date, but Turner admitted the opportunity at Notre Dame could be a game changer.   

“I have a couple offers from Butler, Chicago and some smaller Division-III schools like John Hopkins,” said Turner. “I’ve talked to Cornell and Penn, but it hasn’t gotten as big as Notre Dame.

“I hadn’t really thought about walking on until Notre Dame offered me the opportunity. I’ve talked with my family about it, and it wouldn’t be a bad option for me.”

With Ivy Schools involved, it’s not a surprise to learn Turner is looking for the best educational fit to spend the next four years of his life. 

“Education is my first priority and football is second,” explained Turner. “I’m not sure what I want major in yet. I have thought about Engineering or Business, but no clear-cut decision yet.”

Along with education, Turner wants to find a place somewhat close to home and where he can simply be comfortable.  

“Location is big too,” stated Turner. “I don’t want to be too far from my family, but somewhere I will be able to see them once in a while. I want to make sure I am good fit socially too.”