BY DONALD HUNT
When Patrick Garwo III played for Conwell-Egan Catholic High School, he was one of the best running backs in the city. Garwo, a former All-Catholic League standout, will be a key part of the Boston College offense this season with his ability to run between the tackles and get out in the open field.
Garwo, a 5-9, 208—pound redshirt senior, was the Eagles’ leading rusher a year ago. He’s looking forward to elevating the Boston College ground attack this season.
“I’m really excited,” said Garwo, who had 132 carries for 403 yards while scoring three touchdowns last season. “I’ve been around. I’ve been through my ups and downs. As a more mature player and as I continue to grow, I’m really excited for the season running the ball and catching the ball.”
Boston College is coming off a tough season with a 3-9 overall and a 2-6 record in the Atlantic Coast Conference. But after a great spring practice, Garwo feels the Eagles should have a much better season.
Boston College running back Patrick Garwo III in game vs. Clemson. (Photo/ Boston College Football)
“I’m really excited with the new pieces that we have and the returning people that we had last year,” Garwo said. “We’re trying to build camaraderie and just have laser focus and getting closer as a team as we have everyone back together.”
The cohesiveness and experience should serve Boston College well. Garwo knows the Eagles will be tested in the ACC.
“The ACC is very competitive,” he said. “You play good teams week in and week out. You really can’t take anyone lightly. The ACC is really like all the major conferences. You got to bring you’re A-game.”
Speaking of the ACC, Garwo as well as other former Catholic League stars including Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (Clemson, St. Joseph’s Prep) and Sahmir Hagans (Duke, St. Joseph’s Prep) play in the conference. The Catholic League is well represented in the ACC.
“The PCL [Philadelphia Catholic League] is the predominant league in the [Philadelphia] area,” he said. “They’re good players in and out. Everyone wants the exposure. It’s a lot of competition. I was happy I was able to play in that league. When I was there, it was very competitive.”
Garwo will have an opportunity to play in front of his family on a regular basis. His family will be traveling from the Philadelphia area to watch him play at Boston College.
“My family doesn’t miss a home game,” Garwo said. “My family comes to watch me play every game. I have a big support system where I’m from in Philadelphia and right outside in Levittown. It’s huge for my family to come to my games. It means a lot.”
Patrick Garwo scores two of his three touch-downs during game vs. Bishop McDevitt, which secured the PCL Blue Division title for Conwell-Egan in 2018 - PSD Video
Boston College running back Pat Garwo III in game vs. Louisville. (Photo/ Boston College Football)
Boston College will host Northern Illinois to open the season in Chestnut Hill, MA on Saturday, Sept. 2. Garwo is preparing for the home opener.