Niners pick up first 2016 football commit

Coach Brad Lambert and the Charlotte 49ers have received their first verbal commitment of the Class of 2016 today. Matthews (N.C.) Butler High School running back Ben Lemay chose the 49ers as his next destination to play at the next level.

The 5'9 201-pound junior accounted for 2,018 yards with 28 touchdowns for the Bulldogs. Lemay comes from a football family as his father played at Florida A&M and his 2 older brothers Christian and Uriah play at Jacksonville State and Charlotte respectively.

Niner Report had a chance to speak to Lemay on his decision to join the 49ers.

Why did you commit to Charlotte?

"I like the school a lot and so does my family. Having a D-1 college program right here in the backyard where I can play in front of my family and my hometown was encouraging in the decision. The state of the art facilities and all they bring to the table enabled me to create a long list of benefits in choosing Charlotte. It just felt like the school for me!"

What do you think about the coaching staff?

"The staff is great! They really showed me a lot of love. They have also showed my brother the same. They have kept every promise they made to him and that's something I want to be a part of."

What are your thoughts on playing for your hometown college?

"The idea of playing for the hometown team is exciting for me since I have a very close-knit family. Also, I have really appreciated the community love and respect that has been shown to me over the years here in Charlotte during my youth and high school career. Knowing your close family and friends will be in the stands each week is a bonus to being a part of this great rising program."

What are your thoughts on playing with your brother?

"I Played with him at Butler H.S. my freshmen year when we won the state championship together. So being able to strap it up with him again is just another blessing. I look forward to us winning another championship together."

What are your plans for the spring?

"I'll be going to the NFTC Camp and Rivals Camp. After those events, I will just be working out and preparing for the upcoming season with hopes of winning another state championship at Butler."

Any other thoughts?

"I would like to thank God for his many, many blessings and my family for staying by my side through the whole process."