Another junior from Episcopal's offense has just recently committed. The three-star offensive tackle, Cullen Montgomery made his announcement to the University of Oklahoma via social media making his final decision out for the public to see.
Unlike his teammate, Donavon Jackson, Montgomery decided to simply announce his commitment through social media rather than have media coming to him to witness the decision. Montgomery says he's "a real low-key guy and just posted it in the moment," explaining he "was gonna commit next year but had to post it then," since he knew he had made the right choice so early on.
What was the reason was OU was the one for him? Montgomery said he "got a gut feeling from God, that OU was where I needed to be." He further explained, "Coach Riley reassured me of that," giving him more aspiration to choose his future home.
People like Coach Riley helped guide Montgomery, but who else assisted him along this journey?
Following his career throughout high school, it's noticeable that he credits his father for making him the man he is today. He says, "My dad passed away when I was eight, that's all the motivation I've ever needed." He further explained, "That's why I go so hard. It's to get my family out of their situations." Montgomery undoubtably says "My mom, my brother, mostly my immediate family, and God" play major influences that have impacted his career even his life today.
When asked about other factors that led him to his ultimate decision Montgomery said, "The coaching staff and how they can develop me to the next level. The school academically was a really beautiful place and I'm 100% sure about my decision," having been on campus several times.
When reflecting back on the recruiting process brings back many memories. One in particular stood out to him which was a dinner at Olive Garden in Norman.
Montgomery said "my mom started crying. I knew then it was the right place because she did the same thing when I got into Episcopal."
Speaking of Episcopal, with one more year left to work towards a back-to-back SPC championship, what makes EHS so special when about preparing their offensive linemen to play at the next level?
"You are held to a high standard, so you have to bring it every time you touch the field," Montgomery believes. "With coaches like Steve Leisz...He isn't soft on you, you have to do everything with a 100% effort. You have to come with it"