Interview: 2020 California CB/ATH Joshua Christopher Updates Season and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
It was luck of the draw based on location for Canoga Park head coach Kevin Carlsen getting Class of 2020 athlete Joshua Christopher (5-9, 145), but what Coach Carlsen has done with Christopher’s talents has been fun to watch. Playing any and all skill positions, Christopher’s drive, speed, and athleticism led to a big season on offense in 2018 carrying the pigskin 39 times for 310 yards with two scores while taking in 21 passes for 390 yards with four more trips into the end zone. Another area where Christopher shines is on defense at corner. There are no stats from his junior or senior season to share, but the game tape is there, and I have seen it in person; he can play.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I sat down with the speedy do-everything athlete getting the inside scoop on his senior season.
*Click link for June 16, 2019, RNG video interview with Joshua Christopher
Interview
Joshua, how has your senior season started off?
“So far, it has been good. The Roosevelt game (won 41-0), our first game of the season, knowing we had lost to them last season, we knew what we had to do. That win was great and it kicked off the season for us. It got us moving and going.”
You are lockdown corner for the Hunters, how did you prepare over the summer for your senior year?
“Preparation was important. I knew this season was going to be big for me with some big matchups like Mario Martinez (Reseda) and Grant has good skill guys. I knew if I prepared well, worked on my technique and worked at improving my game at corner, I would make plays this season. We have great coaches putting me in great positions. The game is slowing down because of my technique and watching film.”
I saw you over the summer at a college camp, which other camps did you go to this summer?
“I went to the Hall of Fame Camp in Ohio.”
That had to be a fun experience. How did it go?
“There were top recruiters there watching. The coaches had us in one-on-ones, I went up against the best there to show I am the best. I went up against guys like (4-star RB/WR) Seven McGee (Oregon). I went against him and guys like him at that camp. Going against those guys helps me get better. There were top notch coaches there and former NFL corners helping me improve. It was a great experience. I loved it.”
All the hard work over the offseason put into your game, where are you seeing the biggest improvement in your game on offense?
“Teams are keying on me. But that is working for us because it opens up plays for my teammates. Seeing them thrive is great. I can still contribute by getting a good block or getting a pick on defense. I love it when they get a big play for the team. I believe if I am 100 percent on every play, we will be fine and I will be fine as well.”
Which game has been your best so far and why do you consider that game to be your best?
“I’d say the Grant game (won 55-20), but maybe last night’s game against Reseda was my best (lost 43-21). It was a learning game. I learned about myself and my teammates in that game. Going into the game, we all knew what was going to happen. That should have been a one score game. I could have made better plays. A loss is a chance to learn. We all have to learn from it, stick to the script, and refocus on getting to the championship. We want that one back. We feel we should have beaten them.”
The season is at the midway point, what are some of the big games on the back half of the schedule you are excited to play?
“In two weeks, we play San Fernando at their house. They have great fans and have a big house. It will be a tough game just like Reseda. We have to play hard and do us. That will be another big game for us this season.”
What goals have you set for yourself going forward?
“Personally, I would like to accomplish earning All-City honors as a defensive back and be named first team All-League as a receiver. If I work hard and listen to my coaches it will all come together. My main goal is a championship. The championship is the main thing for us this season.”
Closing out with recruiting. Which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“I am receiving interest from Washington State, Boise State, San Jose State, APU (Azusa Pacific) and Hawaii.”
Did you visit any schools over the summer?
“Yes. I visited UCLA with my 7v7 team. I also visited San Diego State and did the jersey thing. In-person it is great at San Diego State. It was great to see how their coaches interact with everyone. San Diego State is a great school.”
Are you planning on going on any visit in the near future?
“I want to go to San Diego State with two of my teammates for a game.”
Joshua, it was great catching up with you today. I wish you and the team success the rest of the way.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Jeanne Stanwood; No. 2 Joshua Christopher in action
Photo credit: Christopher family; Joshua Christopher (middle) at SDSU