When Seymour High School’s Haden Mettert started visiting colleges, he went in with an academics-first mindset.
While the 6-5, 290-pound, offensive lineman could choose from several football programs, he wanted to make sure he found the right fit for him on and off the field.
After visiting the University of Indianapolis, it didn’t take Mettert long to narrow his list to one.
Mettert signed his letter of intent to play football at UIndy Wednesday at SHS.
“I went to a couple universities and wanted to make sure I went to a school that I wanted to attend: with football out of the picture,” Mettert said. “UIndy was my favorite university without the football-side, but I ended up loving both sides.
He said that he wasn’t sure if he wanted to play college ball until his senior year.
The Greyhounds are an NCAA Division II school that play in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.
UIndy went 10-2 last year including 7-0 in GLVC competition. The Greyhounds’ season came to an end in the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs.
“I’m excited to be on a team that winning is built into the culture,” Mettert said. “They expect to win their conference, and every game they go into.
“This year, I’m hoping to be able to come in and perform to the best of my ability. I just expect to do what I can, and do the best I can.”
In his senior season at SHS, Mettert spent most of his time playing tackle.
He helped the Owls’ offense to 2,669 rushing, 903 passing yards and 33 touchdowns.
“His leadership was outstanding this year,” Owls head football coach Mike Kelly said. “One thing that’s challenging about football is that each group has its own niche. The offensive line is its own group in and of itself. Developing that pride and ownership was great and a large part of that was him.”
At the conclusion of the season, Mettert was named IFCA Class 5A All-State Senior on the offensive line and All-Hoosier Hills Conference.
“I think UIndy is going to have an opportunity to develop him even more,” Kelly said. “They’re getting a great young man and football player. We appreciate the time, energy and effort he put in over the years.”
Owls assistant coach Brice Darling said that Mettert brought a lot to the program.
“He brought excitement every day to practice,” Darling said. “I don’t know that there’s a serious bone in his body. When it was time to work, he was ready to work. That’s going to translate well at the next level.”
Mettert plans on studying secondary education. He said he would like to teach match after graduating college.