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football Edit

Banks flips on NSD

Initially Franklin-Elk Grove safety Joey Banks committed to play football for Northern Arizona University, but when Signing Day rolled around, he faxed his National Letter of Intent to Sacramento State.
Banks began to experience some doubts late in the process and after his wrestling match last Saturday, the 5-foot-9, 181 pound prospect called the NAU coaches and told them he had changed his mind.
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"When I went on my visit, I enjoyed everything about it," Banks said. "I like everything they are doing with the team, but I got a weird vibe. I don't know what it was. I had a lot of fun, but it was weird. I just felt more comfortable with Sac State."
Banks admitted that he may have been caught "in the moment" when he committed to NAU and "felt it was the right fit at the time." However, Banks did not make any excuses, and is happy it all worked out in the end.
NAU's location - and the chance to play with his cousin, Randy Hale, - started off as a positive for Banks, who wanted to get away and have some independence. But after further reflection, Banks realized Sacramento State would also allow him the independence he desired.
"I still feel like I'll get that," Banks said. "I'm going to be staying in the dorms. It's best for me and my family, so that's why I chose to stay. I think, with some stuff that's going on, my family needs me here more."
Banks accumulated 155 (54 solo) tackles, including 10.5 sacks, in his senior year at Franklin-Elk Grove and expects to play both safety and nickel back in college.
He also believes his athleticism - something developed not only from playing offense and defense in high school, but also wrestling - will serve him well at the next level.
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