Football: Stanley Norman makes seamless transition at Serra

Stanley Norman made headlines with a recent transfer to Gardena Serra from nearby Culver City. And once he stepped foot on campus at his new school, the senior was welcomed with open arms. Rightfully so given everything Norman brings to the table.

Not only is Norman one of the nation’s more high-profile recruits, he’s a 6-foot, 180-pound athlete who could be the missing piece of the puzzle for any team. That could be the case as the Cavaliers prepare for Friday night’s Mission League game at La Puente Bishop Amat.

“It was time for a change and I think Serra is a good fit for me,” said Norman, who is also known as Scrappy. “Still, I’m on a short leash. I have to prove myself to everyone around here. I don’t want anything that’s handed to me. I like to compete, it’s something I do every day. That’s how things should be.”

There’s no shortage of talent at Serra. Fellow upperclassmen John Houston Jr. and Rasheem Green are big-time recruits on the national level. Other teammates attracting some interest from colleges include Malik Roberson and Josh Davis as well as Washington State commit Deontay Burnett.

Adding a player the caliber of Norman undoubtedly makes the Cavaliers (4-1 overall, 1-0 in league) a more formidable foe. Sherman Oaks Notre Dame learned that first hand in a 28-23 league loss last night when Norman essentially shut down one side of the field at the cornerback spot.

That best explains why Norman has offers from several powerhouse programs, most notably Alabama, Florida State, Notre Dame and Oklahoma. Closer to home, signs point to UCLA having the inside track for a commitment. Crosstown rival USC is being given consideration too.

The change of scenery has done little to slow down the hype machine, certainly not after thislpast week’s ceremony at school to announce Norman’s selection to the Army All-American Bowl in January. Bottom line: Norman appears to have made a seamless transition to life over at Serra.

Sean Ceglinsky has covered sports in the Southland for the better part of the past 15-plus years. Follow him on Twitter: @SeanCeglinsky