A new start at NIU
Crete-Monee’s Ratkovich makes ‘super’ move to Northern Illinois as a graduate transfer
For three seasons, Clint Ratkovich was a versatile offensive force at Western Illinois, making huge contributions in a variety ofways.
Ratkovich, a Crete-Monee graduate, took on the “superback” role for the Leathernecks, operating as a combination tight end, running back and receiver.
Now, Ratkovich hopes his unique skill set will make him a success at the FBS level as he moves on to Northern Illinois as a graduate transfer.
“I was always told to bet on yourself and have total faith,” Ratkovich said. “I believe I can go in there and help them as much as I can. I’m going to bring it every day.”
Ratkovich planned to finish his career at Western Illinois until the coronavirus pandemic changed the landscape of college football.
“With the pandemic and the way everything turned out, we have an extra year of eligibility,” he said. “The plan in FCS is back-toback seasons in the spring and fall.
“With the way I play, that would take a beating on my body. With that mind, I thought I could go play some bigger competition on a bigger stage formy last year.”
After entering the transfer portal, Ratkovich’s destination quickly became clear.
“Northern reached out to me right away — as soon as I entered the portal,” he said. “Everything they’re saying hit home to me as everything I wanted to hear. It’s close to home and seems like a really good fit.”
In three seasons at Western Illinois, Ratkovich caught 128 passes for 1,204 yards and 10 touchdowns.
He added 97 carries for 429 yards and three TDs.
He also contributed on special teams.
“It was a crazy run at Western, Ratkovich said. “The way I was used there was special. I never could have imagined it going like that, but I thought it was awesome. I enjoyed every part of it.”
Ratkovich especially likes attacking opposing defenses in different ways.
“I think it’s awesome,” he said. “I think it creates some matchups. We can try to find a hole in the defense or a weak spot. It’s hard to plan as a defense when you have a guy playing multiple positions.
“I think that helps out my teammates, too, because if they’re always trying to figure out where I am, that opens things up for everyone else.”
Ratkovich is looking forward to integrating into Northern Illinois’ system.
“I’ll have spring ball to learn their offense, shake off some of the rust and get ready for next fall,” he said. “This is all new, which is exciting.
“I feel like I’ve proven myself to a certain point at Western and now I want to do it at NIU.”
Help for the Hawks: Senior linebacker Elijawah Tolbert has yet to play a football game for Hillcrest after transferring from Thornton following his junior year.
Hillcrest coach Morgan Weaver is excited about Tolbert’s potential, however, and was quick to recommend Tolbert to college recruiters.
“I told him when he first got here that he could be a Division I player,” Weaver said. “I’m really happy for him to get that chance.”
Tolbert signed with Eastern Illinois.
“Ihave a great relationship with the coaches,” he said. “I feel comfortable and at home. I can’t wait to get there and make a legacy.”
Tidbits: In baseball, St. Laurence senior infielder Jimmy Gurgone committed to Illinois Wesleyan and Marian Catholic senior pitcher Justin Johnson committed to Marian University … In football, St. Rita senior defensive back/running back Kyle James committed to the University of Chicago … Marian Catholic senior baseball/football player Ray Cantelo committed to North Central College, intending to play both sports.