It didn’t take long for Ace Alston to realize Notre Dame was different.
The Class of 2027 cornerback from Anderson High School in Cincinnati walked into the Irish facility and was immediately met with reminders of the program’s legacy.
“All these Heismans to my left and all these trophies that they earned — I was amazed,” Alston said.
Alston, who’s picked up more than 30 offers from national powers like Alabama, Michigan, and Oregon, made his first trip to South Bend last week. He toured the campus, watched a full scrimmage, and met with head coach Marcus Freeman and key assistants. By the end of the visit, Notre Dame had positioned itself as a real player in his recruitment.
The full-pads practice allowed Alston to get a feel for the Irish defense up close. One play in particular stood out: a pick-six by junior corner Jaden Mickey. “I love the way #7 played,” Alston said. “He was patient with his game and technique.”
That defensive focus carried over into his meetings with the coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Al Golden made an immediate impression — by literally getting out of his chair to show Alston how to strip the ball. “He had the ball tucked away and he taught me to punch and then secure the tackle,” Alston said. “He just gave me a learning lesson as soon as I walked in.”
It was one of several face-to-face moments that seemed to resonate. Alston said he connected with defensive backs coach Mike Mickens—another Cincinnati native — and left feeling like he had the support to grow both on and off the field. “He told me he wanted to get me up here as much as I can,” Alston said of Mickens. “He’s from where I’m from.”
But it was Freeman’s message that stuck with him most.
“He told me I was the first 2027 that he sat down with,” Alston said. “He wants me to keep coming down, keep building a relationship. As long as I keep my grades straight, he’ll be offering me on Pot of Gold Day next year.”
Alston also came away impressed by the university’s focus beyond football. “What stands out the most is what Notre Dame can do for your life after football,” he said. “You can play high-level football, compete for championships, and get a world-class education.”
Next up for Alston are visits to Wisconsin and West Virginia. But a return to South Bend is in the works—and this time, he hopes it’ll be on a game day. “We’re still working out our schedule,” he said, “but we’ll catch some games for sure.”
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
