Fletcher commits to Alabama

Thomas Fletcher, long snapper from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., announced his commitment to the University of Alabama via social media on Thursday. He has several scholarship offers and chose the Crimson Tide instead of Florida State, Oregon and Texas A&M.

"I am just excited about the opportunity," Fletcher said. "Tuscaloosa and the area around it is culturally different, but it reminds me of the Pacific Northwest (originally from area). To go play in the SEC for a powerhouse like Alabama, but also feel a little at home is a fantastic opportunity for me.

"I like the fact I can see myself going to school there if I wasn't playing football. I know I will have a great football experience and at the same time enjoy myself in school and everything that goes on in college.

"It's a big relief to be committed anywhere. It's a really good feeling to be committed to Alabama. I am very happy and excited about it."

Fletcher had a great feeling about Alabama when he visited in the spring, and again for the special teams camp in early June.

"I didn't know about my decision until a little over a week ago," he said. "I knew the first time I was there it could be the place for me. I called the assistants yesterday. I called Coach Saban around 11:00 a.m. this morning.

"Coach Saban wanted me to understand I am not committing to Alabama. I am committing to the process. He wants me to commit to the process. He talked about what they can do for me. He said it's bigger for me to commit to the process than just Alabama."

The South is a certainly a cultural change from what his family is accustomed to on the West Coast. Fletcher is eager for them to learn more about the Crimson Tide.

"My parents are excited about my decision," he said. "It's something different for them. Most of my family are graduates of schools in California (Cal, San Diego State). It's something much different. They are excited though. I think once they see their first game any hesitations they have about my decision will diminished."

Fletcher wil not take any additional visits. He will graduate from IMG Academy in December and enroll at Alabama in January.