After Cal’s repeated recruiting success over the last few years, it was inevitable that other schools would attempt to reap what Cal sowed. Today, one of the major behind-the-scenes factors in Cal’s success, Director of Recruiting Strategy Marshall Cherrington, announced that he would be joining USC in the same role.

There were signs that something was afoot with Cherrington. Although Cherrington normally posts a tweet when Cal gets a recruit, his Twitter was unusually silent after Damonic Williams’ announcement on the 6th.

After graduating from USC in 2018, Cherrington joined the Bears’ recruiting staff as an analyst. He started his Cal career helping to produce content across social media and to organize official visits for recruits.

Although Cherrington left at the start of 2019 for a personnel role with Washington, the Cal staff were lucky that Cherrington returned to Berkeley within a few months to take on his position as Director of Recruiting Strategy.

Marshall Cherrington @MWCherrington

Cannot say how appreciative and thankful I am for Coach Wilcox and the entire Cal Fam. Amazing people throughout the building that I learned so much from. And for all the players who came and worked everyday. That locker room is made up of world changers. Gonna miss y’all. 🤝🤞

January 19th 2021

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As Director of Recruiting Strategy, Cherrington was a driving force in Cal’s ascent in recruiting rankings. The 2021 class for Cal currently ranks 25th in the nation on 247Sports, its highest ranking since the 2011 class.

As the 2022 recruiting cycle begins to hit the forefront, it is critical that Justin Wilcox and the Cal administration find a replacement who can both continue Cherrington’s success without radically departing from the foundation that Cherrington gave the program.

Meanwhile, although I am thankful for Cherrington’s work at Cal, the reality is I cannot yet wish him success knowing that, for the foreseeable future, Cal and USC will compete for the same recruits.

Thank you Marshall! GO BEARS!