Buzzo commits to CCSU

Most high school students look forward to college as an opportunity to get away from their parents.

Travis Buzzo is looking forward to his college experience to be reunited with his dad.

Tommy Buzzo left the Liberty High School football team two weeks ago, announcing he had accepted an offer to become the defensive coordinator at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Conn.

Now, his son is following after accepting a scholarship that was offered to him Jan. 5.

During Liberty High School’s national signing day event, Travis Buzzo laughed about rejoining his dad — who was already hard at work in New Britain.

“It is (tough), I talked to him this morning and last night,” Travis Buzzo said. “He said he was proud of me and wished he could be here.”

Soon, the Buzzo boys will be reunited.

Travis chose the school because the coaches made him feel at home — and that was before his dad was on the staff.

“When we went up there for camp and they offered me a scholarship,” Travis Buzzo said. “Then I took my official visit and they just made me feel at home.”

Having had his dad coach him during his high school career has helped prepare the younger Buzzo for the college game. The only difference is that Travis, a center ranked third on the depth chart, won’t get direct input from Tommy — the team’s defensive coordinator.

“Having him as a coach is always going to help me,” Travis Buzzo said. “Having him up there helps a lot. I always have a lot of questions to ask and he’ll always answer them.”

Travis Buzzo looked at other schools — most notably Shepherd and Concord — but decided CCSU was the right choice, even if it is a nearly eight-hour drive away.

Travis said he knew the fit was right as soon as he walked through the door.

“It really wasn’t the offense, it was just everything,” Travis Buzzo said. “It wasn’t the only school I visited, everything I was looking for.”

Travis, a student of the game who spends countless hours watching film, thinks he may have an easier go of it at the college ranks than some players due to his varied knowledge.

He plans on majoring in education and is looking to get a head start on his studies, starting the second semester of summer school.

Dad will be waiting.