One to Watch California: Lakewood High School 2017 QB James Rafkin

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

Certain players standout on a crowded field of talented high school players with their play popping full of energy. At Lakewood High School, James Rafkin is in the midst of finding his stride as one of the more dynamic and explosive players in the state of California with another season of experience left to be had.

Rafkin was a first-year starter for the Lancers learning the nuances of the job on the go. Several key attributes quickly started coming forward as the season played out, the 6’1”, 176 pound, athlete has a passion for the game, is not afraid to stand in the pocket taking the big hit on a long strike down field, and has a strong arm with nice touch.

The Lancers did not tear up the season finishing with a 4-7 record but playing against teams like Serra (9-3), Vista Murrieta (12-1), traditional powerhouse Long Beach Poly (2015 record affected by forced forfeits), and Mater Dei (10-3) were not an easy go for any team this season. Rafkin played in all 11 games for the Lakewood area team coming up with 2,166 yards passing along with 20 touchdowns adding three scores on the ground. The 2016 season promises to be even better for the Lancers with a great group of returning starters now full of experience after taking their lumps in 2015.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the rising stars of the 2017 recruiting class to get his thoughts on his junior season, find out what he feels he needs to work on in the offseason to have a great senior year, and received a recruiting news update.

Interview

James, the 2015 season was your first year starting, did you get to play much last year as a sophomore?

“I played some but I was a backup. I think I had 450 yards passing last year.”

There is a lot to learn going from a role as a backup to starter. What were some of the challenging moments or learning points you took away from the season especially during a tough 4-7 season?

“There were a lot of learning points going through a tough season. A lot of the teams we played in the preseason or before conference play all have made the playoffs, some are still playing. We had a lot of young players who were first time starters. We have a lot of returners coming back next year, I think we will be much improved next year. The first part of this season was tough, but we started clicking and scoring more. All the players and coaches all started clicking together as we got more familiar with one another. One thing is for sure, the Pac-5 is tough.”

What were some of the things you learned as the team’s starting quarterback? What are some of the things you want to improve upon for next season?

“From a physical standpoint, I want to put on more weight. Early on, before we started clicking, there was a lot of wear and tear from some big hits. I want to make sure I’m bigger for next year to be able to take some of those hits. I got more mature on and off the field. I learned more about leadership and team work through this season. The way the season played out, there is a lot to remember from this year going forward in life. A lot of learning lessons.”

What are some of the things you do well as a quarterback on the field?

“On the field, I feel like I have trust in my teammates, which is really important. We are all good friends and we all trust each. I feel like my pocket presence is good. I’m not quick but I can move in the pocket. I can stand in and take the big hit. My ability at reading defenses has gotten a lot better after this year.”

What are some of the different passes or routes you like throwing to your receivers in games?

“The post route is one of my favorites. I also like moving in the pocket and rolling out. When a play breaks down, I like rolling out and reading what the defense is giving us. I like the ability to read and react to defenses knowing when to take off or stay in the pocket and when to throw the ball down field.”

What are some of the things you are going to work on in the offseason from a physical stand point?

“My main focus is putting more weight on, 10-15 pounds. Adding some more weight will make some of the deeper throws that I need to make more on the line. I have the arm strength to do that now but I want to improve upon that. If I’m getting hit, if I put on the weight I can take the big hits and play the full season without getting too roughed up. I want to get faster too. I want to work on my footwork so I can move around better and take off and run if needed.”

What was your best game in 2015 and why was that game your best?

“I had a few good games, but my favorite game was probably (Long Beach) Poly. We went in as huge underdogs. I think we lost 33-21, but throughout the game we went back-and-forth with them. I think I had 309 passing yards. They are always one of the top teams in the nation. As a team we played really well. We had nothing to lose and played hard. I’m proud of that game.”

Do you have any plans to attend one-day college camps during the offseason?

“I went to a few as a freshman and sophomore. I’m planning on going to Washington, San Jose State, UCLA, and USC. I want to hit up as many local schools as I can to get my name out there and compete against some of the best in the nation.”

Which schools are recruiting you right now?

“As of right now, Duke sends me stuff. They invited me to come visit. Oregon State was talking to me early in the season and I’ve been in contact with Washington and Cal. I get letters from a lot of other schools but nothing serious right now. Oklahoma and Missouri came to see us play. We had a big win they were there to see. Their coaches were talking to me after the game and a little bit during the game telling me “good job.” My coach said they liked what they were seeing.”

Have you made any unofficial visits this fall?

“I was invited to a UCLA game. I was on a 7×7 tournament that we put together in a couple of weeks that competed at UCLA over the summer. Actually the team I was on won it all. After the tournament the UCLA coaches started talking to our coaches and invited us to go to a game.”

Do you play any other sports for Lakewood?

“Now, no. I’m focused on football. I was going to play baseball but committed full-time to football.”

How are things in the classroom?

“I have a 3.3 GPA.”

Have you taken the ACT or SAT yet?

“I’m taking the ACT in March.”

Who has made the biggest impact on your football career?

“The biggest impact on my football career has been my parents. They never forced me to play football or quarterback, it just happened out that way. Football is something I’ve stuck with and they push me to be successful. I try to be successful as a player, son, and student for them.”

What is your favorite part of playing football?

I really enjoy the friendships that come along with football. I still hang around guys even from my younger days that are like family now because of football. Football is something I truly enjoy doing.”

James, thanks for your time today and good luck on the one-day college camp circuit.

“Thank you.”

Photo credits: press telegram; James Rafkin in action for Lakewood

Photo credits: gazettes sports Long Beach; No. 10 James Rafkin