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In-state OL pledges to Wisconsin as walk-on for 2022 class
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In September, Wisconsin made Watertown high school lineman John Clifford a preferred walk-on offer to play football for the Badgers next season. On Tuesday, the three-year varsity starter announced his plans to continue his playing career in Madison.
Excited to announce I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at the University of Wisconsin. Thank you to all my family, coaches, and teammates that have helped me throughout my career so far. Let’s get to work.🔴⚪️ #AGTG #BADA22BADGERS @WtownFootball @BadgerFootball pic.twitter.com/UqT2BISIt9
— John Clifford (@CliffyJ88) November 2, 2021
Clifford received offers from two Division II schools in Minnesota and a couple of lower level Division I programs. But with the preferred walk-on status, he has the ability to earn a scholarship with the Badgers.
While at Watertown, Clifford is familiar with current Badgers in Stoughton’s Jack Nelson and Grafton’s JP Benzschawel.
“Jack Nelson is one I remember,” Clifford said. “He was pretty good when I played against him, sophomore year for homecoming. Grafton, I didn’t go against him too many times, but he was good.”
Scott Schultz covers Michigan State Football, along with Breaking News for B1G Football & Basketball for Saturday Tradition. He also serves as an Automotive News Editor & Writer, and Softball Writer elsewhere on the web. Follow him on Twitter @SRSchultz.