A dream comes true for Ohios Evege
Growing up a fan of Ohio State, cornerback Donnie Evege out of Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne dreamed of a chance to join the Buckeyes. Today the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder made it official committing to Jim Tressel on an unofficial visit.
"I was there on an unofficial visit and committed," he said. "I'm still really excited about it and I just knew it was the right time for me. My family was there including my sister and brother and I had a wonderful day.
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"I felt like I could make the decision today because I saw everything I needed to from all the schools. I prayed about it and taken a lot of unofficial visits and juniors days and I was ready. Throughout the process, Ohio State was always my No. 1 school."
Jim Tressel reassured Evege once he decided today.
"He was very excited when I committed and then told me whatever happens from now on you'll still be a Buckeye."
In the end, what made the cornerback prospect select Ohio State over offers from West Virginia, Purdue, Washington, Indiana and others?
"It's everything there," he said. "The tradition, coaches, players and academics all met my needs and then they are close to home. I feel very comfortable going there and I can't wait to be apart of that tradition.
"Coach Peterson was a big factor in my commitment too. He recruited me as a defensive back and I feel like I have a real good relationship with him. He is a great man that is honest and upfront."
The future business major is glad to have a decision behind him.
"It feels great to be done," he said. "Now I can focus on my senior season to try to help lead my team to a state title. I also want to work on developing my body and strength to be a better player before I go."
Evege is still considering graduating in December.
"At the moment, I'm 50/50 deciding on whether I'll graduate early or not."
Of course being from Ohio, it's a dream come true for Evege.
"I have a huge smile on my face," he said. "I just want to tell the other fans out there I'm extremely excited to be a Buckeye and I'm going to give 100% for the team. I look forward to joining the team and help them win another championship."