Notre Dame Fighting Irish - Official Athletics Website

Nate's Great For The Irish

Aug. 14, 2003

by Chris Masters

He’s got a last name that’s long enough to challenge the most astute eye doctor and likely earn you a “triple word score” in Scrabble. However, sophomore fullback Nate Schiccatano also has the ability to score on the gridiron, and that’s what makes him an attractive option in the Notre Dame backfield this season.

“Nate has a strong work ethic and a burning desire to be successful,” Notre Dame running backs coach Buzz Preston said.

At 6-3 and 224 pounds, the native of Coal Township, Pa., was highly recruited coming out of Southern Columbia High School after rushing for more than 3,600 yards and adding nearly 1,600 yards receiving in his prep career. After sitting out his freshman year at Notre Dame in order to better grasp the complex Irish offensive system, Schiccatano was eager to make a big splash in his first meaningful action during the spring season. Despite moving from tailback to fullback, he did just that, rushing for 24 yards and one touchdown in the ’03 Blue-Gold Game.

“Nate’s performance in the spring game was a good sign that he’s maturing and growing into his new position,” Preston said.

“He still has a way to go in terms of his development, but if he continues to make the strides that I hope he will, I look for him to have an outstanding career.”