FIU Athletics

FIU -- 2002 Freshman: A good hitter from whom coaches look for more overall improvement...saw action in six games last season at linebacker and on special teams with five tackles (three solo)...season high two stops against Butler (9/14)...his tackle against nationally-ranked Bethune-Cookman (9/21) forced a fumble on a punt...also had unassisted tackles against Saint Peter’s (8/29) and Butler.

Miami Springs High School: A two-year letterwinner and all-district performer...as a senior, made 107 tackles, two interceptions, blocked a punt, had three sacks, recovered four fumbles and made three other tackles that caused fumbles...as an offensive fullback that same season, carried the ball 46 times for 342 yards (7.43 yard average) and a touchdown...also had catches that amounted to 50 yards and a touchdown...played in the Nike All-Star game and was nominated to play in the 2001 Florida/Georgia and Florida’s North/South all-star games...voted the team’s Most Valuable Player...coached by Carl Goins.

Personal: Born August 11, 1983...chose FIU over interest shown by Southeast Missouri State, Murray State, Eastern Kentucky and Bethune-Cookman...son of Orrie and Kathy Cherasia...Criminal Justice major.