Mario Nixon only has a season and a half of high school football experience, but what he displayed in a limited time was enough to garner a scholarship offer from the University of Virginia. Nixon, a 6-5, 210-pound wide receiver/safety out of Norfolk Christian (Norfolk, VA), scored the offer early last week.

“It was huge,” Nixon said of receiving the offer. “It’s a big blessing. Last year was my first full year playing football, so I think it speaks volumes to how hard I’ve worked. I want to be the best.

“I’m real humbled. It’s a big opportunity. Virginia is a big-time school, plus it is big academically.”

A 2010 VIS Division III first-team all-state selection at wide receiver, Nixon hauled in 31 receptions for 600 yards while helping Norfolk Christian to the VIS D3 state championship. A safety on defense, he totaled 38 tackles, six pass break-ups and four interceptions. Most college coaches, though, are recruiting Nixon to play offense and that suits him just fine.

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