Centennial sophomore Andrew Nichols looking forward to big junior football season

Peoria Centennial sophomore Andrew Nichols said he will attend Notre Dame's elite camp in June and spend the rest of the summer working out with his football teammates to get ready for what he figures to be a big year that will lead to numerous college scholarship offers.

"Next year, I'll be way better," said Nichols, who already is a top 2017 prospect at tight end and defensive end at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds.

Nichols doesn't have an offer yet, but he was shown considerable interest during his sophomore season by Mississippi, where he took an unofficial visit.

Nichols figures to be among the state's top sophomores that college coaches will be looking at in May during spring football practices.

"I want a school that is good academically in engineering," he said. "That's what I want to do."

He said he is not picky about how far he might have to go for college, but said, "It would be nice if it was close."

"If it's far, I'd still consider going there," Nichols said.

Last season, Nichols caught nine passes for 155 yards and three touchdowns in a run-oriented offense for the Division II state champion Coyotes.

He also had a sack, two pass deflections and two fumble recoveries.

Nichols said he is open to playing either side of the ball in college.

"I feel stronger and faster," he said. "Compared to last season, it's going to be a whole different story now."

Centennial moves up to the top level of competition in the 17-team Division I.

He said that Arizona State and Arizona have sent him letters, along with other colleges encouraging him to attend camps, but he said he doesn't know how serious they are.

He said it matters more to have a connection with the position coach.

"It doesn't matter how good that team is," Nichols said. "But if the position coach is good for me, that would be good. I see myself as a tight end and defensive end, depending on what they want me for."

Opening regional

Maricopa junior quarterback Aaron Owens said that he received a written invitation to attend a Nike Opening regional this summer as a defensive back.

He said he will play both cornerback and quarterback next season. He has a greater chance at making it in college as a cornerback with his size. He said he is 5-10, 160 pounds.

Last season, Owens passed for 2,658 yards and 25 touchdowns, completing 59 percent of his passes. He also ran for 368 yards.

If Owens performs well enough, he'll get invited to the finals of the Opening in July in Oregon. That features some of the nation's top football players.