Cardinal Newman's Michael Bolchoz Cardinal Newman School senior Michael Bolchoz Jr. has committed to play football for Campbell University. The student athlete made it official when he signed the contract Tuesday, March 17, 2009.

Cardinal Newman athletic director Michael Darnell states, "We're extremely proud of Michael. He's a talented player with a lot of promise, and Campbell is lucky to have him."

Bolchoz states, "Football has always been my favorite sport, and playing college football is going to be a challenging task. Hard work and dedication on and off the field all factor into being a successful player. I'm looking forward to challenging myself at the next level."

Cardinal Newman coach Andy Smyth asserts, "Michael is a very intense player at practice and in games. He really knows how to play the game. Most important, he's a leader in every sense of the word - both on the field and off. Playing on the college level will be a challenge, but he's ready for it.

"Michael is a very special player in every sense. I'm not sure we will be able to replace him in our scheme any time soon. I have no doubt he will be successful at the next level and will make the entire Cardinal Newman family proud."

Campbell University, located outside of Raleigh in Buies Creek, N.C. is a member of the Pioneer League and competes at the NCAA football championship subdivision level. Others in the league include Butler, Davidson, Dayton, Drake, Jacksonville, Morehead State, San Diego, Valparaiso, and Marist. Campbell announced the addition of football in 2006.

Bolchoz is the second Cardinal Newman athlete to be offered a chance to play at the collegiate level. Thomas Winstead signed to play soccer at the College of Charleston.