Litchfield Ajavon Ready For Notre Dame Return
2019 Episcopal (Va.) safety Litchfield Ajavon tries to remain low-key in everything he does, but it’s also hard to stay in the shadows when you’re committed to Notre Dame.
The 6-foot, 188-pounder didn’t do a big camp circuit this spring like some prospects, but that doesn’t mean the four-star prospect wasn’t working. Ajavon spent a significant amount of time working to improve his coverage skills and change of direction during the offseason.
“I’ve worked on my one-on-one coverage skills and increasing my speed along with change of direction,” Ajavon told Irish Sports Daily. “I’ve also worked on my power so I can change directions quickly to get to the spot the ball is thrown faster and not be a step behind. I’m getting to the ball quicker, so hopefully, I can make some big plays.”
Ajavon committed to Notre Dame on April 21st and has felt the power of Notre Dame already as several alumni have connected with him over the past few months.
“A lot of people have reached out to me,” said Ajavon. “There have been a lot of alumni of Notre Dame that have congratulated me and told me what to expect. I have a lot of contacts of guys that have played there. I’m getting a lot of knowledge to make my transition easier, but it’s definitely all been good.”
In many cases, prospects have a moment after they have committed to a school where reality hits them and they can’t believe they are about to play Division-I football.
For Ajavon, the moment came, but it was a feeling of relief in this case.
“The biggest thing I felt was when I realized it was all over and I didn’t have to focus on any other school or coaching staff,” explained Ajavon. “I could finally focus on myself as a player and person to be ready next summer when I get to Notre Dame.”
Notre Dame defensive coordinator Clark Lea was one of the main reasons Ajavon will wear the blue and gold, and that relationship has only strengthened since he committed. Ajavon has also developed a solid relationship with safeties coach Terry Joseph.
“Coach Lea and I text each other back and forth all the time, and our relationship is out of this world,” stated Ajavon. “He’s been the guy from day one that has recruited me, and nothing has changed with him.
“Since Coach Joseph came into the picture, we never missed a beat. Everything has been on point with him. I haven’t really talked with Coach Lyght like that, but when I do speak with him, it’s like we have been talking for a long time. Coach Lea and Coach Joseph have been, and we’re in constant communication.”
Lea has impressed several prospects since he arrived at Notre Dame and Ajavon related to his laid-back personality and sincerity.
“He is just a people person,” Ajavon said. “He’s not one of those coaches who wants you to come because of your talent. He sends me pictures of him and his family when they were at the beach to keep me updated. He sent me a picture of his son when he went to his first hockey game and stuff like that.
“People might think it’s weird or whatever, but talking about family and being inclusive really makes things better. Coaches don’t do that, and he’s showing how relatable he is when you’re talking with him.”
Ajavon will be back in South Bend this weekend for his official visit as Notre Dame host Stanford, and he’s looking forward to seeing the Irish defense continue to grow.
“I’m looking to see fast, physical football,” said Ajavon. “I know it’s going to be aggressive football. I can’t wait to see it.”
2018 Highlights