Interview: 2020 ATH Jalen Bainer Emerged as All-Around Playmaker for San Marcos in 2018
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
San Marcos High School finished the 2018 season 8-2 against Division I California squads thanks in large part to the all-around performance of Class of 2020 athlete Jalen Bainer. Bainer was dangerous on offense securing 33 passes for 543 yards with eight scores and gave his team extra field advantage with his returns taking back seven kicks for 189 yards and 12 punts for 62 more yards. The 5-11, 180-pound, recruit also shinned on defense coming up with 39 tackles and four picks. For his work Bainer earned first team All-Avocado League and Academic All-League.
College programs are taking notice in Bainer and the offseason grind is already underway. In an RNG exclusive, I sat down for conversation covering his season, workouts, and recruiting interests.
Interview
Jalen, you were a play-maker for the Knights in all three phases of the game last season. Going into the season, did you know you would play such a big part for the team?
“Yes. Since Kyle graduated, I was the next to step up at receiver on the outside. I knew I would get the ball a lot and I had to make plays for the team.”
Speed is such a big part of your game, and you have lots of it. How fast are you?
“I run a 4.6.”
Your game speed may be a different gear. You were able to showcase your talents at receiver with team-highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. What all were you doing well on the field as a receiver in 2018?
“My versatility and my hands separated me from other receivers in our league.”
You picked off four passes highlighting your season on defense. What were some of the other areas of your game that shinned during your junior season on that side of the ball?
“Being able to read plays, reading quarterbacks, and being able to score for our team was a big part of my defense last season.”
What do you consider to be the overall strengths of your game on offense?
“I feel like my strengths overall are being able to play anywhere; receiver, kick returner, and corner. On offense, my route running is a strength. I have great coaches teaching me how to run great routes. My routes create separation.”
And what about on defense?
“I read my keys and execute. I can pick off the ball, I know what will happen before the play starts.”
Of the positions played, which do you like playing most?
“I like receiver more. I feel like I am better at it. I feel that I can help my team more on offense.”
What all will you work on this offseason?
“I am working on getting faster and stronger. I am working on my agility, route running and getting better overall.”
Are you playing 7v7 with a travel team this spring?
“Yes. I am playing with ProWay Elite.”
How are you hoping that will help improve your game?
“Seeing so many different competitors from California, Los Angeles, and from across the country will help show me where I am at with my overall game and what I need to work on for next year.”
With recruiting, which schools are showing interest but have not offered?
“I am receiving interest from Fresno State, Colorado, Arizona, and Yale.”
Nice. Have you had a chance to visit any schools yet?
“Yes. I took a visit to Fresno State.”
How did the Fresno State visit go?
“It went well. I went up there for a game. It was a good visit. I saw the school and the game and the atmosphere was fun.”
Do you have any planned visits you may take coming up?
“I am hoping to see Arizona and Colorado.”
Are you playing any other sports for San Marcos?
“Yes. I am competing in track.”
Which events?
“The 100, 4×1, long and triple jump.”
What is your best distance in the triple jump?
“41-feet.”
Nice. Going into the classroom. What is your cumulative GPA?
“My GPA is 3.5.”
What is your favorite subject in school?
“Science. I love science.”
Jalen, I appreciate your time today and wish you luck with the 7v7 season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Sherrie Bainer; Jalen Bainer at U.S. Army All-American Combine