LORETTO, Pa. (Jan. 10, 2011) – Former Altoona Area High School standout A.J. Alexander has transferred to Saint Francis University to continue his academic and athletic career after spending the past three seasons with the Florida State Seminoles program.

“We're very excited to have A.J. join us,” said head coach Chris Villarrial. “A guy with his exceptional talent helps us stretch the field and stress defenses.”

“I'm happy to be back close to home,” said Alexander. “I'm going to do everything I can to help this team move forward and compete for a conference championship.”

“I want to thank Coach Villarrial for giving me this chance, and I want to thank [associate head coach] A.J. Anderson for helping to bring me here,” said Alexander. “He stood by me throughout this entire process.”

Alexander played both defensive back and receiver for the Seminoles over three years, and also saw work as a punt returner. He was injured just two games into the 2008 season and was granted a medical hardship redshirt. In 2009, Alexander played in three games as a defensive back for the Seminoles, recording an interception against BYU and returning it 21 yards. In 2010 Alexander was converted to a slot receiver, catching two passes for 18 yards and recorded three rushes for 12 yards.

Alexander ranked as one of the most exciting players in the region while at Altoona, splitting time at the quarterback and tailback positions. Alexander rushed for over 1,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in his senior season at Altoona, in addition to notching over 400 yards receiving and six touchdowns.

Alexander was courted by a number of university football programs coming out of high school, including powers Tennessee, North Carolina, and Pittsburgh, before ultimately signing with Florida State.