Thomas Jefferson’s Stump to join Dukes

By JOSE NEGRON
jnegron@yourmvi.com
Shane Stump stepped foot on several college campuses over the last two years.
Some schools seemed better than others, while a few didn’t exactly stand out.
Duquesne, however, provided the perfect fit for the Thomas Jefferson football standout.
Stump announced his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career at the Pittsburgh-based university on Jan. 27.
The senior quarterback/defensive back signed his national letter of intent to join the Dukes on Feb. 5.
“It’s a huge weight off my shoulders,” said Stump, who won three WPIAL championships and a state title during his illustrious high school career.
“To know that I have found a place and I have my future set, it’s a very relieving feeling.”
In joining Duquesne, Stump will play for veteran head coach Jerry Schmitt. Under Schmitt’s guidance, the Dukes went 6-5 overall and 4-3 in Northeast Conference play this season.
“I talked to coach Schmitt and coach (Scott) Farison, who recruited Shane, and they love how hard he plays, what type of player he is and the leadership he has,” TJ head coach Bill Cherpak said. “I think that is an awesome fit for him.”
Stump, who chose Duquesne over the likes of IUP and Cal U, said his decision was based on location and the reputation of the university’s business school.
He was plenty impressed by the football program, too.
“The coaching staff really set things apart,” Stump said. “They’re a winning school, too, so that always helps.”
Over the years, Stump has established himself as a star at both quarterback and defensive back.
At the moment, it’s still undetermined what position he will play once he arrives at Duquesne. He could line up under center or play on the defensive side of the ball at safety or outside linebacker.
“They’re going to see where I can help the most,” Stump said. “It could go either way at this point. Obviously, I’m going to try to make an impact however I can.”
Stump finished his high school career in a big way, leading the Jaguars to a Big 8 Conference championship, a WPIAL championship and a PIAA championship during a perfect 16-0 campaign.
At quarterback, Stump completed 59% (123-209) of his passes for 2,478 yards, 33 touchdowns and just one interception. He also made an impact in the running game, rushing for 547 yards and 12 scores.
Defensively, Stump instilled fear while lining up in TJ’s secondary. He was second on the team with 57 total tackles and third with 45 solo stops.
“I’m coming to make plays,” Stump said. “I’m so passionate about the game of football. I’m going to go in there, work hard and give it everything I can to be as good as I can on the football field.”