I'm Ollie Lane: This is why I chose Tennessee

Ollie Lane
For USA TODAY Network - Tennessee
Ollie Lane, Gibbs High School offensive lineman, signs with  the University of Tennessee at an early signing day ceremony with his mom Barbara Lane at his left, and grandmother Linda Lane to his right, at Gibbs High School in Corryton, Tenn., Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017.

When I look back on my recruitment and all the experiences that I have had, it really has been an incredible journey. From receiving my first offer from Vanderbilt in the beginning of my junior year, to then committing to Tennessee in April, I can say that I would not have traded this for the world.

I am so blessed to have the opportunities to continue my athletic and academic careers at the school of my childhood dreams. Ever since I was a little boy I knew Tennessee was the place I wanted to be. I watched emerging stars glorifying the spirit of the Volunteers and the Knoxville community and of course saw and was part of a fan base so energetic in their support of their teams.

Growing up, I loved the sport of football. I started when I was in kindergarten and played all throughout middle school. When I began my high school career at Gibbs, I was ecstatic to have the chance to finally play with my older brother Hunter Lane. That was my favorite year of football, even though I didn’t start. Getting to experience my brother's senior year and then witnessing him be able to chase his dreams of playing college football is something I will never forget.

Oliver "Ollie" Lane, Gibbs High School, during the Knoxville Football Officials Association High School Football Media Day Friday, Jul. 14, 2017.

Throughout my high school career, I was always told was that Gibbs wasn't a place where I would be noticed. I was happy to prove those people wrong.

Gibbs is an amazing community with wonderful people, yet not a lot of people know where it is. Now that an offensive lineman from there has received over 21 offers, many of which are from Power Five schools, people will know that you can get recruited to any level from Gibbs High School.

From taking trips to Chicago, to driving 20 minutes down the road to Tennessee, I have had the experience of a lifetime. I believe that this has taught me a lot about life and I am happy that playing the game I love has afforded me this opportunity. I am so glad I never gave up on my dreams. I get to live my fantasy, and I can't wait for when I can officially call myself a Volunteer. GO VOLS!!

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