Former Heels & Their Worthy Venture
VTO Sports is the industry leader in delivering football combines and football camp experiences that not only tests ones athletic ability, but provides valuable recruiting education. Their combines are known nationally.
The Charlotte-based company started in November of 2006 by Vince Jacobs Sr, Terence Lawshe, and Otis Lloyd, as their sons’ started the recruiting process. The trio realized that their kids were not prepared when attending combines and camps, so they developed VTO Sports.
In order to have successful combines they must have a dedicated and skilled staff. Several of the VTO Sports coaching staff are former players from the University of North Carolina.
Last Sunday, after covering the VTO Sports Elite 100 combine in Durham, I wanted to show that the former Heels were helping the younger generation in trying to reach their goals at the next level. I also asked the staff their feelings on these camps and how they thought the UNC program was doing.
Here is what the former Tar Heels players said about VTO Sports and UNC Football:
Vince Jacobs, Jr. – 2006-10
Thoughts on VTO Combines
“I’m happy that I got all my boys to come out and help me out with the VTO camps. It is nice to see and show the brotherhood that we have.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I’m excited about Carolina Football. Hopefully, we will be back in Charlotte and pull it off this year. Very excited about the future.
Quan Sturdivant – 2007-10
Thoughts on VTO Combines
VTO camps are growing and it’s great for the kids. I like coming out and helping these kids.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I think Coach Fedora is taking our program to the right level. I respect him for that. Go Heels!!
AJ Blue – 2009-13
Thoughts on VTO Combines
The great thing about the VTO camps is that it gives a lot exposure to the kids. I came to these camps coming up and I got exposed. I just think it is a great outlet for high school guys.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I am at UNC and work with the strength and conditioning. The season, the coaches, just everything around there is changing and it changing for the good. There are high expectations and high standards and we are ready to roll and show the country what’s up.
Terry Shankle 2009-13
Thoughts on VTO Combines
Here are VTO Sports will get to find kids like diamonds in the rough players and try to get them some exposure.
Thoughts on UNC Football
The Tar Heels are headed down the right direction. The basketball program is back where they used to be. The football program is back where they should be. I’m feeling great about UNC.
Joshua Hunter 2009-13
Thoughts on VTO Combines
I love working with VTO. I have been out here for 2 years and enjoy it. I always meet someone new. It’s a blessing to help someone life. Vince does a great job with this.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I think UNC is in great shape with Mitch (Trubisky) in as QB. The coaches are doing a great job with them and improving everything. I love the defense. I definitely love the defense and I feel they are coming up strong.
I think UNC is in great shape with Mitch (Trubisky) in as QB. The coaches are doing a great job with them and improving everything. I love the defense. I definitely love the defense and I feel they are coming up strong.
Ryan Houston 2007-11
Thoughts on VTO Combines
The best thing about the VTO Sports combines is to give kids exposure. I didn’t have VTO combine growing up and I didn’t go to a lot of camps. I was still recruited because of what I did at my high school. These events get more kids out to be exposed and more opportunities for college.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I love the Carolina football program. I’m a Tar Heel born and bred. I bleed Carolina blue and will always be a Tar Heel. I’m very proud of them.
Kennedy Tinsley 2005-09
Thoughts on VTO Combines
I really enjoy helping the kids get exposure at combines like this.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I’m really proud of the Tar Heels this year. Coach Fedora has been doing a great job. I’m looking forward to them keep improving.
Marcus Wall 1992-95
Thoughts on VTO Combines
I love helping the kids and giving them the opportunity to get better. It has helped me to travel to 3 different countries and go places I have not been.
Thoughts on UNC Football
I’m so proud of UNC. The coaching staff has the program in a positive direction. We are headed in the right direction especially on defense.
Greg Elleby (2006-10) and Aleric Mullins (2006-09) are also part of the VTO staff. Elleby was not present for that combine. Mullins wasn’t available for comments.