Southeast on the watershed of the Mississippi River sits the "Stove Capital of the World", better know as Belleville, Illinois. The midwest town was founded by German descendants, who established iron, coal and agriculture manufacturing. It was also a little known hotbed for professional baseball scouts to discover future stars and the home of tennis star Jimmy Connors.
Belleville would also be the American hometown of Matt Russell.
The linebacker became known for his physical play at Belleville High School East, receiving scholarship offers from at least 70 schools in every major conference. Russell was ranked No.