Notre Dame Fighting Irish Receive First 2010 Verbal Committment

Mark Allen, Domer Sports Report

Notre Dame Football
2010 Recruiting

Christian Lombard, an offensive lineman from Palatine, Illinois has given a verbal commitment to play football for the University of Notre Dame. Lombard, a current junior, becomes the first verbal commitment for the recruiting class of 2010.

The 6'5", 290-pound offensive lineman made his announcement in San Antonio, Texas. He was there for the U.S. Army All-American game. He was among the juniors who were invited. He will also play in next year's game.

The highly-rated lineman—at least one service projects him as a five-star prospect—chose Notre Dame after narrowing his list down to three. The other finalists were Iowa and Wisconsin.

When asked why he chose Notre Dame, Lombard cited a few reasons.

"Overall, it's a good fit. I just think I can play early. I want to make an impact on that team because I know they're going to be good and I want to be a part of that," he said.

Lombard also stated what many of his predecessors have said, "I think if things don't work out with football, I'll still have a shot at making money with that degree," Lombard said.

Lombard also said that the likelihood of playing more quickly in his college career due to a lack of tackles at Notre Dame played a part in his decision. He said that he would become a recruiter for the Irish, attempting to sway other recruits in Notre Dame's favor.

2010 recruiting is off to a very good start. Welcome to Notre Dame, Christian!

*Mark Allen has been a fan of Notre Dame since watching the Irish on Sunday replays in the late 1960s. He is a former minor league baseball player. He currently lives near Notre Dame. Charlie Weis does not live far away. He has degrees in psychology and sociology, with minors in philosophy and theology.