Rodriguez staying in-state

Hacienda Hts (Calif.) Los Altos athlete Raymond Rodriguez took official visits to La. Tech, Nevada, San Diego State and San Jose State before making his decision this past Friday.

"I committed to San Jose State," Rodriguez said. "I narrowed it down to them and La. Tech and it was a very tough decision for me. I went back and forth a lot and actually didn't decide until last Friday while I was sitting in class.

"I just felt like San Jose State was the best overall fit for me and where I got that special feeling that people say you get when you know the school is right for you.

"I just really liked the environment at San Jose State a lot and how the coaches interact with the players. I also liked that San Jose is closer to home. I'm still far enough away to get my independance but close enough to come home when I want to.

"I'm very relieved to have this decision out of the way and I'm excited for Signing Day. It was pretty stressful towards the end but I'm happy with my decision. I'm coming in as an athlete and they said they'll find the best place for me. I may start off at defense but I'll get looks on both sides of the ball."