Versatile Upland football standout Gary Theard was fairly sure his college destination was going to be one branch of the armed forces – the big question which one.
Well the wide receiver-defensive back has decided it will be the Naval Academy.
He made an official visit to the Naval Academy back in October and was guided by former Upland teammate Elijah Jones who is now on his second year there.
Theard admitted Jones was a big factor i his decision.
“He told me exactly how it is, that the first two years are tough,” Theard said. “But it was good having someone I know be honest and tell me what to expect so I can trust what he says.”
Theard had 13 offers. Also among those was Air Force.
He has three brothers that have served in the Marines so a service academy always was his preference.
“It’s a chance to have your education paid for, travel and see the world. You come out and you have a job and a career,” he said. “I knew pretty much all along that I was going to go there.”
Theard has excelled on both sides of the ball but said he will play on defense for naval Academy.
The first step of his journey will be in Rhode Island where he will have service training and go to a prep school. That will not count toward his eligibility.
