College of Idaho
The Lone Coyote
College of Idaho inks first football recruit since '77
The College of Idaho took another step towards resurrecting its football program Monday, by signing Marcus Lenhardt to a letter of intent.
Lenhardt, a tight end from Eagle High School, is the first Coyote football recruit since 1977.
The school won't actually field a team until 2014, prompting head football coach Mike Moroski to implement an interesting sales pitch when trying to lure in his first recruit.
"He told me the situation, which was: he didn't have any players at the moment," laughed Lenhardt.
"He said I could be the first guy, and that sounded very attractive to me. I want to be a part of something special. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity, so I thought I should make the most of it."
Marcus Lenhardt is the younger brother of Boise State basketball star Lauren Lenhardt. His athletic pedigree wasn't lost on the Coyote coaches, but it's not just his football accumen that made Marcus a perfect candidate to lead a new team.
"He's a high quality guy, he seems to get the whole situation," said coach Moroski.
"I mean, it's not because he's the best guy, but he's a very good recruit and he will do well recruiting other guys like him."
"Marcus is in a unique situation," said Eagle coach Paul Peterson.
"He's going to have to show some leadership, and be a spokesperson, and I think certain things are going to come to him that he hasn't though about prior."
Peterson thinks Lenhardt can play an integral role in keeping other local football talents in the Treasure Valley.
"We all understand what Boise State has become and the type of athlete they're getting these days, but it leaves 99% of the kids here in the state. The College of Idaho is sitting on a gold mine, and they got their first one today."
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