Folsom (CA) guard Austin Mac announced that he would be moving into the class of 2023.
There was some speculation that Mack would reclassify the class, but when he announced his allegiance to Washington two weeks ago, he said he would wait to register until January 2024 and play his senior season at Folsom.
Instead, Mack decided to actually re-qualify for the class of 2023.
“The decision was really the opportunity it represents,” Mack said. “My family and I had many conversations with the staff that were only good.”
With Washington not signing a quarterback in the class of 2022, 1st class Calen DeBoer, and with the Huskies losing to Lincoln Keinholtz for the class of 2023 for a long time, the Huskies were in danger of not having a quarterback in consecutive classes. Add to that the transfer of 2021 quarterback Sam Huard, and the Huskies were in a position where they would have only two quarterbacks per scholarship in the fall.
Mack joined Seattle (WA) Garfield quarterback E.J. Kaminong to join the Huskies in the class of 2024.
Instead, they will be spread over a year.
“I’ll sign up as a regular student and be there in the fall,” Mack said. “I plan to graduate at the same time as our graduates this year, and if not, then in June,” said Mack, who turns 17 this summer.
Mack said the opportunity to spend a year in the Husky system supporting Michael Penix outweighs coming back and participating in his senior campaign.
“It just gives me the opportunity to grow and adapt to the situation, and also gives me a chance to compete for first place next year,” Mac said.
Mack said the Washington coaches had come up with the idea of a reclassification, it wasn’t even on his mind initially, but after some time and thought, he decided to go that route.
“It was their idea and it took us a while to think it over, but in the end it’s what’s best for me,” Mack said.
While offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb was courted by several schools, Mack said his departure would not have been a big deal, but he’s glad he’ll be back in Montlake.
“I would have stayed anyway, but it’s definitely very important to me and the program, considering he’s such a highly regarded coach,” Mack said. “It will be amazing to work with him.”
Mack said he was glad the decision had been made and that the future was with the Husky.
“It gives me the opportunity to fully focus on my craft to prepare for the next level,” Mack said.
Mack is currently listed as No. 53 overall in the nation, No. 8 prospect in California, and No. 7 quarterback in the nation in 2024, although his final slot in 2023 is yet to be determined.
As a rookie, Mack completed 269 of 382 pass attempts (70.4 percent) for 3,498 yards with 40 touchdown passes and five interceptions. He also rushed for 99 yards and had two touchdowns, leading Folsom to a 12-2 record and the CIF-Sac Joaquin Section D1 Championship in California.
Source: 247sports.com
