Lorenzo Booker
St. Bonaventure High School
Impact Statement
” I like to think I played with a lot of heart.”
–Lorenzo Booker
Biography
“Athletes like Lorenzo Booker are among the success stories produced in high school athletics today,” NHSCA executive director Bob Ferraro said. “He has worked extremely hard to develop his skills and has become one of the best football players not only in the state of California, but the entire nation, and we are proud to be honoring him.”
It is the second straight year that a running back from Ventura has been selected the NHSCA Athlete of the Year; Tyler Ebell of Ventura High received the award last year. Booker, who will attend Florida State University, was selected as the Gatorade National Player of the Year after becoming his state’s all-time leading rusher with 8,269 yards, scoring 126 of his 132 career touchdowns on the ground. His 850 career points also are a state record. As a senior, he rushed for 2,869 yards, averaging more than nine yards per carry as he led St. Bonaventure to a third consecutive divisional title.
Booker also was named the winner of the Ken Hall Trophy, the equivalent of college football’s Heisman Trophy, by the San Antonio (Texas) Downtown Rotary Club, and participated in the inaugural U.S. Army All-American Bowl in January, leading the West squad to a 26-6 victory over the East. Sports Illustrated magazine also recognized Booker’s distinguished career with a mention in its “Faces in the Crowd” section this year.
Booker led the Seminole with carries and was second in rushing yards his Sophmore year. His Junior year, he led the Noles in carries, rushing, and touchdowns.
Booker was drafted in the 3rd round (71st overall) at the 2007 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. Booker has played for the Dolphins, Eagles, Vikings and Bears in the NFL.
Photos
Articles
Community Service
Booker has done extensive volunteering and is giving back to the Venutra Family YMCA (store above).
