Making a choice that was in his heart from the get-go, Saint Ignatius' standout junior offensive lineman Jim Byrne committed to the University of Notre Dame and its head football coach Brian Kelly just within the past 20 minutes.

In selecting the national-championship game bound and undefeated Fighting Irish over the Buckeyes of Ohio State, Jim, rated as a 4-Star recruit, pointed to Kelly's offensive line coach Harry Hiestand and how he is confident Coach Hiestand will make him the best offensive lineman he can be.

Jim also was quick to point to the academics under the Golden Dome and the great educational opportunties he will be receiving. He said he is relieved to have his decision out of the way before his senior season, that it was one of his goals to do so.

After becoming a mainstay on Saint Ignatius' record 11th Division I state championship team as just a sophomore in 2011, Jim (6-4, 280) helped lead the Wildcats to an 11-2 record and a regional-final appearance this fall. His run blocking and pass protection from his tackle position showed the way for 2,404 yards on the ground and 3,021 yards through the air.

Jim garnered first-team honors on the Associated Press Division I All-Ohio and All-Northeast Lakes District teams and will be honored by The Plain Dealer as a seven-county All-Star selection.

A huge congratulations goes out from the corner to a great player, and even a greater young man.