For Kent State class of 2010 signee Mark Fackler, the biggest challenge he'll face when he arrives on campus shortly after the July 4 holiday might not be learning the Golden Flashes' defensive playbook.

Fackler racked up over 370 tackles from his middle linebacker position at Kenton High School in Ohio the past two years, but he'll move from linebacker to defensive end at Kent State.

"I think the transition will be OK," Fackler said. "I need to get stronger and a lot better with my hands."

According to Kenton head coach Mike Mauk, it doesn't matter where Fackler lines up. He knows his former player will do whatever it takes to be successful.

"Mark Fackler is a play maker. It doesn't matter what position he plays," Mauk said. "His desire is to be the very best player he can be and to help the team be successful. These same characteristics that created the opportunity for him to play at Kent State will be the same characteristics that will help him be successful once he is there. On top of that, you won't find a better overall person than Mark Fackler. He represents one of the best to ever come out of Kenton High School."

That says a lot considering the number of standout players Mauk has produced at Kenton.

Since signing with Kent State in February Fackler completed his senior year of high school basketball and baseball and he's been lifting with his team to stay in shape for fall camp. He's even been following Kent State's football conditioning plan the coaching staff sent him earlier this year.

"It's tough," he said. "The running is pretty good. If I stick to it I should be in good shape. They are having me to the basics but changing up the reps. I have noticed that I'm getting stronger."

Fackler was on hand for the Golden Flashes' April 30 spring game and came away impressed with what he saw.

"It was a good atmosphere," he said. "I think they did pretty well."

He even spent a little more time with his future position coach, Matt Edwards.

"I like him, he's a good guy," he said.

Fackler, whose father Brent played offensive line at Saginaw Valley, should be a perfect fit for Kent State's defense.

"Mark Fackler has been a dominant player in the (Western Buckeye League) for the last two years, leading our team to 16 straight league victories," Mauk said. "His work habits, willingness to be coaches, leadership and physical abilities are traits that have led to his success."

Fackler was one of four Kent State signees to play in the Ohio North-South Classic. Fackler, Phil Huff and Roosevelt Nix represented the South team while Luke Wollet was on the North squad.


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