With Nielsen, the Big Hits Just Keep on Coming

Through seasons good and bad, Royal High has produced more than its share of Division I football players.

In the opinion of the man who should know, Highlander Coach Gene Uebelhardt, the best is Ryan Nielsen, The Times’ Ventura County defensive player of the year.

“Ryan is the most heavily recruited player I’ve had, he was the most dominant at the high school level, and I believe he has the most potential,” Uebelhardt said.

Nielsen’s senior season supports Uebelhardt’s beliefs. The 6-foot-5, 238-pound defensive end had 19 sacks among his 129 tackles. He caused seven fumbles and had two interceptions for Royal (2-8).

“Losing was tough, but that’s football,” Nielsen said. “I had fun no matter what. Just coming out and competing against teams. I loved it all and I’ll never forget it.”

When Nielsen made a tackle, the ballcarrier was sure to remember it.

“The only time I thought I’d have to come out of a game was a time Nielsen hit me right after I threw the ball,” said Camarillo quarterback Joe Borchard, the county player of the year. “He hit me so hard, my teeth rattled.”

Nielsen, a three-year starter, was dangerous on offense as well, leading Royal with 32 receptions at tight end.

His future is on defense, however. Nielsen made a commitment last week to attend USC, where he will play defensive end in the Trojans’ 4-3 alignment.

He also took recruiting trips to Miami and Arizona State, and canceled trips to Stanford and Texas upon making his decision.

“I plan on living in Southern California after I graduate, and having that USC degree will help,” he said.

Before focusing on football, he will finish his basketball career. A rugged center, Nielsen was the Marmonte League player of the year after leading the Highlanders in scoring and rebounding last season.

“I’m giving everything to basketball, then I’ll work on putting on some weight for football,” he said.