Quarterback Jaleel Awini, named the state’s Gatorade Player of the Year after leading Rangeview to a 11-1 record, said Thursday he has given Colorado State what he called “a soft verbal commitment.”
“I’d like to keep my options open,” said the 6-2, 190-pound athlete. Air Force and Big Sky schools Weber State and Eastern Washington have shown interest and Awini said Vanderbilt entered the picture around the holidays.
Proximity, however, is an issue for him. “Being at home is more important to me,” Awini said.
Although he is considered a quarterback/athlete type of prospect, Awini said running a pro style offense such as the one at CSU “has always been a goal of mine.” He passed for 1,266 yards and rushed for another 1,078 yards.
He said he would like to make a firm decision in two weeks.
The Gatorade award is presented on the basis of athletic and academic achievement as well as citizenship.
Natalie Meisler: 303-954-1295 or nmeisler@denverpost.com
