Looks to add depth as a backup at the strong safety position … also can play the bandit safety position … competing for more playing time this season … used extensively on special teams … a physical competitor who hits hard … previous bowl trips: 2007 Gator, 2008 Fiesta, 2008 Car Care.

2008 (r-So.): Played in all 12 games, mostly on special teams … finished with nine tackles, including seven solo stops … two solo tackles against Cincinnati and Marshall … has two tackles against Syracuse … solo tackle at Colorado and at Pitt … assisted on a tackle against Rutgers.

2007 (r-Fr.): Played in all 13 games … special teams champion: Connecticut … season-high nine plays against East Carolina … posted 14 tackles and a forced fumble for the season … five total tackles, including four solo stops and a forced fumble against Connecticut … two tackles, including a solo stop against East Carolina … three assisted tackles at Marshall … solo tackle against Pitt and Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl.

2006 (Fr.): Came to WVU in Jan. 2006 ... did not see any varsity action … used on the scout team.

Prep: Three-year starting defender from Mobile’s St. Paul Episcopal High ... 92 tackles and six interceptions as a senior team captain for Coach Eddie Guth ... second team all-state ... Alabama state spotlight of the week for 15 tackles and three interceptions against Sidney Lanier ... Weineacker Award for commitment and excellence … Black Watch Award for big tackles and big plays ... member of the state runner-up indoor and outdoor track teams … earned all-state honors as a member for 4x200 meter relay team … set school record as a member of the 4x100 meter relay team.

Personal: Birthday is March 20 ... son of Steve and Kathryn Hale ... father is president and chief executive officer of the Senior Bowl ... father played football at East Carolina … one of two children ... majoring in athletic coaching education.