It was a perfect storm for Shane McCormick.
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The senior wide receiver’s performance as Crown Point defeated Merrillville for its first sectional title since 2011 represented the fulfillment of his vast potential.
McCormick had 10 catches for 240 yards and two touchdowns, scoring on grabs of 65 and 71 yards in the first quarter against the Pirates.
He added a pass breakup, having entered the game with one this season. He had three tackles, also having entered the game with one. He even blocked a kick.
Bulldogs coach Kevin Enright was impressed, but not necessarily surprised.
“Shane had a breakout game,” Enright said. “Coming into the season, he had high expectations for himself and we had high expectations for him. That game let him know what’s he capable of.”
The 6-foot-6 McCormick has possessed the physical tools.
He has the size to present matchup problems for defensive backs. Last spring, in just his second season participating in track, he was a member of the Bulldogs’ 400-meter relay that placed fifth in the state. He competes in the high jump as well.
McCormick has been productive this season. He’s up to 39 catches for 738 yards and five TDs after last week’s other-level game.
And McCormick put it together with junior quarterback Ryan Bolda making his second start of the season.
“Everybody really came together as a whole,” McCormick said. “Ryan made a lot of good throws, just putting the ball where I could make plays. The linemen did their job. It was a combined effort.”
McCormick and Bolda have spent additional time before and after practices building their chemistry.
“We didn’t practice that much together during the season, and these past two weeks we’ve been working to get on the same page,” McCormick said. “It’s crazy how much confidence he has to make plays. You can’t mess around at quarterback. I’m proud of him for the way he’s playing.”
While Bolda has made two varsity starts, McCormick is in his second varsity season. He’s more comfortable after last season’s transition.
“It’s been a progression,” McCormick said. “Before last year, I never played wide receiver at that level, that magnitude, with the speed of the game. I wasn’t used to having to be a big-time guy.
“But I have a lot of great teammates and coaches. They’ve taught me technique and route-running, and worked with me to hone my skills. I feel like I’ve gotten better as the years have gone on, and I want to keep getting better.”
On Monday, he gained his first college offer from St. Francis. McCormick, who plans to follow his mother into nursing, hopes more will follow.
When the Bulldogs play at Penn in regionals, he’s not expecting to have a game similar to the one against Merrillville. But he’s looking forward to the challenge against the tradition-laden Kingsmen, who have won 22 straight games against Duneland Athletic Conference teams, including 14 straight in the postseason.
The Bulldogs at least have a degree of familiarity with Penn, having held their preseason scrimmage against the Kingsmen the last two seasons. The schools are expected to be on board for another two seasons.
“This obviously is a bigger game with a lot more pressure, but we got that taste,” McCormick said. “We’re not afraid of any team. We’re all just really excited to play. No matter the outcome, we have each other’s back.”
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