FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Jeff Malby, Associate Director of Athletics
Office of Sports Information
406.238.7376 office
406.839.4034 cell
jeff.malby@rocky.edu
Rocky football inks 42 newcomers to program
BILLINGS, Mont. February 1, 2017 – The Rocky Mountain College football team signed 42 student-athletes to a National Letter of Intent on Wednesday during College Football’s National Signing Day. The 42 student-athletes include seven mid-year transfers the Battlin’ Bears added before the beginning of classes in January.
“We feel exceptionally good about what we have been able to accomplish with this recruiting class,” said second year head coach Jason Petrino. “We had some needs and depth that we needed to address and we were able to accomplish that. What I am most excited about with this class is the tremendous character that this group represents; but also the athleticism, physicality, and playmaking ability by this group!”
With a total of 42 students athletes added to the Battlin’ Bears roster for 2017, the coaching staff dipped into nine states including 13 who hail from Montana and Idaho. Five new student-athletes are from Wyoming, while three each are from Utah and Washington. Arizona produced two new Battlin’ Bears with California, Colorado, and Florida bringing in one student-athlete each.
Mid-Year Transfers (Already enrolled in Spring Semester)
Jace Billy | 5’11 | 245 | DE | Havre, Mont. | MSU-Northern (Havre HS)
MSU-Northern: Redshirted during the 2015 football season before transferring to MSU to go to school for one semester this past fall…
Prep: 1st Team All-State Defensive End for the Blue Ponies in 2014…
Personal: Son of Frank Billy… Siblings: Eric and Melissa Petersen… Plans to Major in Elementary Education…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because I liked the campus and it seemed like a great place to spend the next four years, with coaches who are really enthusiastic and determined.”
John Boogaard | 6-5 | 275 | OT | Monument, Colo. | Western State College (Palmer Ridge HS)
Western State College: Started all 11 games in 2016 at Left Tackle… Was a part of an offensive line who paved the way for All-American and Harlon Hill finalist Austin Ekeler who rushed for 1,533 yards and 15 TD’s…
Prep: First Team All-Conference and All-City at Palmer Ridge High School in 2013…
Personal: Son of Karen & Gary Boogaard… Three siblings: Older Sisters Kim, Kari, and Karla… Plans to major in Business Management…
Why Rocky?: “An opportunity to play the game I love with coaches who truly care about me as a player and a man. The city of Billings gives amazing opportunities and I couldn’t say no to Coach P again.”
Kirk Durtsche | 5-11 | 200 | DB | Casper, Wyo. | Chadron State College (Kelly Walsh HS)
Chadron State College: Started all 11 games in 2015 with 86 tackles & one interception… Only played in three games in 2016 due to injury… First Team RMAC All-Academic Team…
Prep: All-State Defensive Back for the Trojans… Selected to the Casper-Star Tribune Super 25 Team in 2013… Named team captain…
Personal: Son of Marci & Shane Durtsche… Siblings: Four brothers Chris, Zack, Kade, and Cohen… Plans to major in Exercise Science…
Why Rocky?: “The coaching staff did a great job of communicating with me and I felt like I developed a very good relationship right away. It’s a great opportunity to play in the Frontier Conference and Rocky provides a great Health and Human Performance program to further my education of Exercise Science. Rocky is also close to home where my family can come watch our games.”
Max Gray | 6-0 | 185 | WR | Arlington, Wash. | Chadron State College (Arlington HS)
Chadron State College: Led team in receiving for the 2015 and 2016 seasons… Started 13 games over the past 2 years... This past fall tallied 59 receptions for 572 yards that included 6 touchdowns… In 2015 he recorded 40 receptions for 439 yards and a touchdown… First Team RMAC All-Academic Team…
Prep: All-State and All-Conference Selection at Wide Receiver… Named Team Captain for both football and track teams… Was an Athlete of the Year nominee his senior year…
Personal: Son of Bridget & Bill Gray… Plans to major in English Education…
Why Rocky?: “The coaching staff did a great job with the recruiting process being very honest and respectful. The Billings area is beautiful and I knew I could get a great education at Rocky. I also wanted to be a part of a team that is going to do great things with great leaders.”
Kendell Jefferson | 6-1 | 175 | DB | Pasadena, Calif. | Pasadena City College
Pasadena City College: Recorded 99 tackles along with eight pass breakups… Tallied five interceptions along with two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble… As a punt returner he added one punt return for a touchdown…
Prep: First Team American Metro League All-Conference Defensive Back…
Personal: Son of Kimberly Reed & Wendell Jefferson… Three siblings: Brothers Cardell and Wendell Jr…. Sister April… Plans to major in Sports Management…
Why Rocky?: “I knew I could trust Coach Petrino and the Rocky Football staff with my academic and football careers. I felt that I would be in good hands at Rocky with striving for my degree as well as an opportunity to coach someday.”
Jake Tuivaiave | 6-3 | 285 | DT | Tacoma, Wash.| Mount San Antonio College
Mount San Antonio College: First Team All-League in 2016…Earned defensive player for Golden State Bowl Game…. Recorded 32 tackles along with 4 sacks…
Prep: First Team & All-League Linebacker during his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons…Was also named the Defensive MVP all three seasons…
Personal: Married to Dezarae Tuivaiave & they have two boys Aloalii & Ziggy… Son of Tammy Misa & Paoa Tuivaiave… Six siblings: Brothers Gabriel, Kenny, Paoa Jr., and Jesse… Sisters Cecelia and Cerina… Undecided with his major…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because of the coaching staff. They made promises that they kept and also included my family because I am big on FAMILY. The atmosphere is great and the players were very welcoming. It just felt like home.”
Paris Wilcox | 5-10 | 188 | DB | Miami, Florida | Tennessee State University
Prep: Named to All-County and All-District Teams for Football and All-County for Track as well… Record 38 tackles along with 11 pass breakups… Posted three interceptions and a blocked punt during his high school career…
Personal: Son of Madeline Newton-Flowers & Wade Wilcox… Plans to major in Sociology…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because it is a great school, has a good learning environment, and it has a winning football tradition.”
2017 Signees (Incoming Freshmen)
Keair Adgerson | 5-10 | 165 | DB | Helena, Mont. | Helena HS
Prep: Honorable Mention All-State during in 2016… Second Team All-State as a junior… This past fall he… shared the Bengals' interception lead with a pair of swipes, and tied for second with eight passes deflected… Ranked No. 3 on the team with 39 solo tackles, fourth with 58 total tackles and eighth with 139 defensive points… Last year, led HHS with nine deflected pass, and his 17 career deflections ranks No. 8 on the Bengals all-time list with 8 career interceptions…
Personal: Son Cathy Gordon & Craig Campbell… Plans to major in Psychology…
Why Rocky?: “Great family atmosphere and there is just something special about Rocky. The coaches and players are really easy to get along with, but seem determined to win and to work hard.”
Jacob Barnard | 6-3 | 275 | OL | Chandler, Ariz. | Hamilton HS
Prep: Team Captain… First Team All-State 6A Center in 2016… All East Valley Tribune 2016… All-Conference… Rated in the top 150 HS Football Prospects 2017 Class in Arizona… Blue-Grey All-American… Nokoai Senior Bowl All-Star Game invite…Was a part of an offense that average 371 yards per game and 37 points per game…
Personal: Son of Katie & Todd… One Sibling: Sister Mackenzie…Plans to major in Aviation…
Why Rocky?: “I loved Billings and the family environment that Rocky Mountain Football stood for. I quickly realized this would be home for me the next 4 years the moment I visited the school.”
John Bass | 6-1 | 175 | QB | Kearns, Utah | Kearns HS
Prep: Two-time letter winner in Football… Three-time letter winner in Track… Started 13 games during his high school career… Throw for 1,892 yards while rushing for 223 yards for the Cougars… Throw for 14 touchdowns and rushed for three…
Personal: Son of Linda & Todd Bass… Siblings: Brothers Aaron, David, and Ben… Plans to major in Health and Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “It’s great for me both academically and football wise.”
Kyle Brauhn| 6-2 | 200 | TE | Cut Bank, Mont. | Cut Bank HS
Prep: Played both ways at Defensive End & Tight End for the Wolves…Earned Second Team All-State for both positions…
Personal: Son of Anna Brauhn… Siblings: Brother Brian… Sister Terra… Plans to major in Pre-Physcial Therapy…
Why Rocky?: “I liked the small school atmosphere that will give me a great chance to meet new people. I liked the 14:1 student to faculty ratio that will all me to keep good grades and hopefully reach my desired goals. Just a plus, green is my favorite color!”
Filiotama’ita’i Church | 6-1 | 220 | OLB/DE | Nampa, Idaho | Skyview HS
Prep: Three year letterman for the Hawks… Second Team All-Conference Linebacker and Tight End.. Selected to play in the Idaho Shrine All-Star Game… Honorable Mention Punter as well during his prep career… Silver Hawk Award that recognizes leadership during the sports seasons at Skyview… Four-time recipient of the SIC Academic Award… Recorded 36 tackles with eight being for a loss, one sack, one forced fumble, and three pass breakups… Also managed to snagged 3 catches for 24 yards and a touchdown during his Senior campaign…
Personal: Son of Louise & Matt Church… Siblings: Sisters Lagilelei, SioloMasina, and TausalaAnna… Plans to major in Health and Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “The main reason I chose Rocky was not just because of the coaching staff for football, but because of the whole community. It just felt right the minute I first stepped on campus. On top of that I chose Rocky because it was the best academic fit for me.”
Ryder Conklin | 6-2 | 285 | OL | Sweet, Idaho | Emmett HS
Prep: Three-time letter winner for the Huskies… First Team All-Conference Offensive Line in both 2015 & 2016… Was a part of a team that won the 2015 3A State Championship in 2015… Selected to play in the Idaho Shrine All-Star Game…
Personal: Son of Natalie & Scott Conklin… Siblings: Brothers Callen, Dawson, and Afton… Sister Payton… Undecided with is major…
Why Rocky?: “Great academic program. The coaches and the atmosphere are great! I believe that Rocky has a bright future and I want to be a part of it.”
Brayden Crowley | 5-9| 190 | RB | Roundup, Mont. | Roundup HS
Prep: Class Valedictorian… First Team All-Conference Running Back… Rushed for 880 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2016… Recorded 48 Tackles along with one fumble recovery on defense… Second Team All-Conference Defensive End…Two year Team Captain... Student Body President… Four year letterman for both Football and Track…
Personal: Son of Michelle Klein… Two Siblings: Brother Ryder Klein… Sister Bella Klein… Plans to major in Biology…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky’s football program offers a true family feeling that is unlike anywhere else and this program in on path to accomplishing something incredible. Besides football, Rocky Mountain College is only 45 minutes form home and has excellent academic opportunities to aid me on my path to becoming a doctor.”
Todd Durham | 5-11 | 195 | OLB | Eagle, Idaho | Eagle HS
Prep: First Team All-State Linebacker in 2016… Earned First-Team All-Conference at Linebacker during the past two seasons… Recorded 257 tackles with 32 of them tackles for a loss during prep career… Tallied 16 career sacks, 18 pass breakups, along with three interceptions where one was returned for a touchdown…
Personal: Son of Angie Bixby and Joel Durham… Siblings: Brothers Joey and Jordan… Sister Maddie… Plans to major in Health & Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky Mountain College because I believe it is the best fit for me and where I will accomplish all my goals and dreams.”
Kyle Frazier | 6-0 | 220 | LB | Meridian, Idaho | Rocky Mountain HS
Prep: 2015 State Champion for the Grizzlies… First Team All-State Linebacker in both 2015 & 2016… First Team All-Conference Linebacker in both 2015 & 2016… All-Conference Academics in 2014, 2015, & 2016… Two-time team Linebacker MVP… 2016 Team MVP… 2016 Team Captain… Selected to play in the Idaho Shine All-Star Game… Tallied 109 tackles with 9 of them as tackles for a loss… Also recorded 6 sacks…
Personal: Son of Barbara & Steve Frazier Sibling: Sister Amanda… Plans to major in Business Management and Health & Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “The coaching staff is what truly brought me to Rocky. You can tell they care about their players and know how to win. Also the academics are unbeatable and they have programs that will set me up to be successful in life after football. A huge plus to all of that is the potential to build a dynasty by winning conference championships and national championships over the next few years!”
Mitchell Goodwin | 6-3 | 220 | DE | Bountiful, Utah| Viewmont HS
Prep: All-Region Honors and All-Area last fall for the Vikings… Part of a Region Championship at Viewmont… Record 75 tackles and 6 sacks during his senior year… Will graduate with honors…
Personal: Son of Nikki & Reed Goodwin… Sibling: Brother Jory… Plans to major in Business…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky is the best fit for me. It has a great football program and outstanding education and coaching staff.”
Tyler Hilliard | 5-9 | 160 | ATH | Gillette, Wyo.| Campbell County HS
Prep: Was First Team-All Conference Defensive Back for the Camels… Also earned Honorable Mention All-Conference Wide Receiver… Record 32 solo tackles with 20 additional as assisted tackles… Broke up 4 passes, caused one fumble, and snagged one interception… Tallied 6 catches for 75 yards and one touchdown on offense… All while maintaining a 4.0 GPA all four years…
Personal: Son of Mishia & Jimmy Hilliard… Siblings: Bother Tanner & Sister Traecyn… Plans to major in Biology…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because it’s a great school that offers fantastic educational opportunities, and I was given the once in a lifetime chance to play college football.”
Blaine Jansen | 6-3 | 285 | OL | Cut Bank, Mont. | Cut Bank HS
Prep: First Team All-Conference Center in 2016… Helped guide the Wolves to a 6-2 record in 2016... Nominated as an alternate for the Class B All-Star Game this summer…
Personal: Son of Brandy & Micky McDonough… Sibiling: Sister Sarah Jansen… Plans on majoring in Health & Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “The Health & Human Performance program was an amazing experience and I feel like it’s a good fit for me. The coaches were very nice and supportive. Also, the players were supportive for each other in and out of the weight room. Next, the football field and campus are absolutely beautiful. Rocky just has that hometown feeling and that’s why I love Rocky.”
Drew Korf | 6-1 | 185 | QB | Boise, Idaho | Capital HS
Prep: Conference Player of the Year in 2016… First Team All-Conference and Second Team All-State during his senior year as an Eagle… Guided Capital High School to the State Championship game last fall… In 2016 he was 196-276 (71%) with 2,745 yards & 27 touchdowns… On the ground he rushed for 606 yards on 130 carries & 12 touchdowns… Two-time recipient of the IHSAA Outstanding Individual Scholastic Award… Two-time SIC Academic Award winner… CHS Student Athlete of the Month on two occasions… Two-time top-three finisher in the Idaho State DECA Competitions… DECA National Competition Qualifier… Earned the Knight in Shining Armor Award that is only given to seven Treasure Valley student-athletes last fall…
Personal: Son of Carmen Korf & Daren Korf… Sibling: Brother Tanner… Plans to major in Business Management…
Why Rocky?: “I’ll be attending Rocky Mountain College because of the academic and athletic success of the school, the amazing coaching staff, the players that set the foundation to go get a championship, along with the support of the community of Billings.”
Alex Lindsey | 5-10 | 155 | WR | Boise, Idaho | Capital HS
Prep: First Team All-State Defensive Back in 2016… Second Team All-State Wide Receiver… First Team All-Conference at both Defensive Back & Wide Receiver… Helped guide the Eagles to the State Championship in 2016… Racked up 614 yards receiving on 46 receptions that included eight touchdowns… Tallied over 200 yards rushing as well… Defensively he recorded 53 tackles along with 5 interceptions (one for a touchdown) and one forced fumble…
Personal: Son of Robin Anselme & Tim Lindsey… Sibling: Brother Jake Lindsey… Plans on majoring in Health and Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky felt like it was a great fit! I liked the players and the coaches and I believe we can something special there.”
Logan Martin | 6-2 | 175 | Punter | Great Falls, Mont. | Great Falls HS
Prep: Earned First Team All-Conference Punter along with Honorable Mention All-State in 2016…Recorded the longest punt (87 yards) in school history during his senior campaign… Averaged 40.1 yards last season that included 12 punts that were pinned inside the 20… Also, was 80% on field goals in 2016 and recorded a touchback on kickoff’s 44% of the time…
Personal: Son of Kimberly & Bryan Martin… Siblings: Brother Luke… Sister Eden… Plans on majoring in Biology…
Why Rocky?: “The minute I stepped on the campus, the coaches made sure I felt right at home. I could tell the guys on the team all got along well with each other. The school offers a plethora of degrees, so I have many options to choose from. It’s also a good distance away from home, but not too far.”
Jake McBride | 6-0 | 270 | OL | Meridian, Idaho | Meridian HS
Prep: Earned Honorable Mention 5A South Idaho Conference Offensive Line in 2016… Voted as the Offensive Linemen of the Year for the Warriors during his senior campaign… Recorded 26 pancakes in 2016… Earned Offensive Linemen of the Camp award at Rocky’s Big Sky Big Man Camp during the summer of 2016…
Personal: Son of Nikky & Robert McBride… Siblings: Brother Scott… Sister Kourtney… Plans to major in Pre-Physical Therapy…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because I loved the atmosphere and how it felt like a family when I came for a visit. It felt like home and I felt like all the coaches want us to succeed as bad as we do. I can’t wait to build something special in Billings. I can’t wait to represent the this school and this program for the next four years!”
Nolan McCafferty | 6-0 | 215 | LB | Sheridan, Wyo.| Big Horn HS
Prep: Named 2A Defensive Player of the Year in 2016… Two-time State Champion for the Rams… Three-time All-State Linebacker… Named to the Casper-Star Tribune Super 25 Team in both 2015 & 2016… Also named to the 2016 USA Today All-Wyoming First Team… Is currently competing to be the school’s Valedictorian during his senior year…
Personal: Son of Eileen & Mike McCafferty… Siblings: Brothers Connor & Quinn…He is undecided with his major…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky Mountain is a great fit for me. The academics are a big part of why I chose Rocky. Being undecided on what I am going to study, I think the variety will give me quite a few options when I finally do decide what I will pursue. The job opportunity in Billings after I graduate and start out in life is a great bonus as well. To have an opportunity to get job experience in my field right out of college will help in the long run. I'm from northern Wyoming, only two hours away, so being close to family will be nice. What really made me choose to attend Rocky though is the direction in which I think the success of the team is heading. In getting to know the coaching staff and some of the players on my recruiting trip, I felt that there is a great sense of family within the team, which is very important. I believe great things are in store, and I am very excited for my next four or five years here.”
Jaryd McCray | 6-5 | 270 | OL | Chandler, Ariz. | Hamilton HS
Prep: Honorable Mention All-Conference for the Huskies… Top-15 Offensive Tackle in the state of Arizona in 2016 according to MaxPreps… Rated in the top 100 HS Football Prospects 2017 Class in Arizona…
Personal: Son of Angie Anthony… Grandma: Bobbie Anthony… Plans to major Kinesiology and Health…
Why Rocky?: “I like the school and what it has to offer me in my future.”
Luke Miller | 6-0 | 190 | LS | Vancouver, Wash. | Mountain View HS
Prep: Earned Scholar-Athlete honors during his four years as a varsity letter winner… Consistently has record times from .65 to .75 seconds from snap to the punter’s hand… Also played Outside Linebacker during his prep career…
Personal: Son on Brandy (Step-Mom) & Robert Miller; and Rose & Rick (Step-Dad) Weithas… Plans to major in Environment Science…
Why Rocky?: “I fell in love with the dynamic and culture of the program, not only the athletics but the academics as well. Everyone wants to see you succeed and will always try to help you in any way they can.”
Sean Miller | 6-0 | 175 | DB | Columbia Falls, Mont. | Columbia Falls HS
Prep: Two-time All-State & three-time All-Conference Cornerback for the Wildcats… Earned All-Conference honors as a Wide Receiver in 2016 as well… Named Team Captain & selected to play in the 2017 Montana Shrine Game in July… Recorded 23 tackles while snagging two interceptions in his senior campaign…
Personal: Son of Katie & Don Miller… Plans to major in Education…
Why Rocky?: “I loved the energy that Coach Petrino had and the chemistry that the rest of the team had when I took my visit. I think this is a great opportunity to better myself. What I loved most of all was how Coach Petrino talked about family and love being crucial parts to his team. It showed me that he’s really trying to make something special happen and it make me feel like I was right at home. I wanted to be a part of a team that cares about football as I do and with Rocky that’s exactly what I found.”
Oliver Munch | 5-10 | 150 | WR | Boise, Idaho | Boise HS
Prep: Named First Team South Idaho Conference Wide Receiver in 2016… Earned Offensive MVP Honors as a Senior…Selected to play in the Idaho Shrine All-Star Game…Recorded 103 receptions for 1,143 yards and 12 touchdowns during his career as a Brave… Also managed to return 3 kickoffs for touchdowns and block two field goals…
Personal: Son of Alyssa & Marc Munch… Siblings: Sisters Edith and Emme… Plans to major in Business…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky has a great Business program and the campus has a great atmosphere. Several talented players from the Treasure Valley are planning on furthering academics and athletics here and it seemed like the best fit already knowing guys that I will be playing with along with the amazing coaching staff at RMC. They understand what the players want and base it around them. It’s a true feeling of family up in Billings.”
Chad Nebel | 6-0 | 225 | LB/DE | Billings, Mont. | Shepherd HS
Prep: Earned All-Conference honors at both Running Back & Linebacker in 2016… Tallied 272 yards on 28 carries in six games for SHS… Also recorded 11 pancake blocks in 6 games…
Personal: Son of Kari & Dion Nebel… Sibling: Sister Brook… Plans to major in Health & Human Performance…
Why Rocky?: “I picked Rocky because of the outstanding drive and attitude of the coaches. It just feels like home. Also, Rocky has an outstanding program for the field that I want to study.”
Derrick Olsen | 6-4 | 170 | WR | Helena, Mont. | Helena HS
Prep: Earned First Team All-State & All-Conference as a WR for the Bengals this past fall… Three year letter winner in track and is the current record holder in the 110 hurdles at HHS… Snagged 51 catches for 753 yards and seven touchdowns… Also scored once on the rushing…
Personal: Son of Mary Smith & Jeff Olsen… Siblings: Brother Ryan… Sister Elizabeth… Plans to major in Business Marketing…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because of the on-campus atmosphere and dedication from the football program.”
Mason Olsen | 6-3 | 185 | ATH | Powell, Wyo. | Powell HS
Prep: Led the Panthers to the 2016 State Championship Game… All-State and All-Conference performer in 2016… Was a part of the 2013 State Championship Team…Four year letter winner in both football and track… 2017 Wyoming Shrine Bowl selection… Accounted for 1,956 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns during his senior year… On defense he recorded 21 tackles, with five pass breakups and two interceptions…
Personal: Son of Rachel & Justin Olsen… Sibling: Sister Sydney… Undecided with his major…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because I feel like they offer me great opportunities in both athletics and academics.
Lucas Overton | 6-2 | 190 | WR | Emmett, Idaho | Emmett HS
Prep: Two-time First Team All-State Wide Reciever the past two years… First Team All-State DB in 2016… Three-time First Team All-Conference both WR & DB… All-Idaho First Team Wide Reciever… All-Idaho First Team Defensive Back… Selected to play in the Idaho Shrine All-Star Game … Won a State Championship during his Junior campaign with the Huskies… Record 139 receptions for 3,009 yards and 33 touchdowns during his prep career… Tallied 4,640 all-purpose yards as a Husky with 42 touchdowns overall… Snagged 14 interceptions as well during his high school career…
Personal: Son of Tonia & John Overton… Sibling: Sister Aubrey… Undecided with his major…
Why Rocky?: “I wanted to come to Rocky because I loved the coaches, the players, and the atmosphere. I also love having the small college experience, but also being in a big city where there are things to do.” I can relate a lot to Rocky Football because the high school I come from wasn’t very good and we had new coaches once I got there as a freshman and we built up the program to the top to win a state championship.”
Tryston Peery | 6-0 | 185 | ATH | Salt Lake City, Utah| Summit Academy HS
Prep: Named Team Captain for the Bears in 2016 that won the region championship…Earned Honor Roll status though out his entire career at Summit Academy… Tallied 46 receptions for 724 yards that averaged to be 15.7 yards per catch… Defensively recorded four interceptions, one defensive touchdown, and 25 tackles…
Personal: Son of Tiffany & Matthew… Peery Siblings: Brothers Brody, Ryker, Wyatt, Chase, Jake, & Jayden… Sisters Brook & Haven… Plans to major in Biology…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky Mountain College is a special, unique place. On my official visit I not only had the surity that the football program in the coming years will win and succeed, but my educational goals would be a great and I would thrive as an individual.”
Brock Peterson | 5-7 | 155 | ATH | Clyde Park, Mont.| Shields Valley HS
Prep: All-State selection for Montana 6-Man Football… First Team All-Conference Running Back & Second Team All-Conference Outside Linebacker... Named to the Bob Cleverly All-Star Game… Three sport Academic All-State honoree… Is currently competing to be the school’s Valedictorian during his senior year… Rushed for 1,728 yards and 33 touchdowns in 2016… Tallied 4,249 yards and 63 touchdowns during his entire career for the Rebels…
Personal: Son of Leslie & Alan Peterson… Sibling: Sister Brianne… Plans to major in Pre-Physician’s Assistant Program…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky Mountain College fit my academic needs but it was also a very good fit for football. Rocky has a great football program backed by a great group of coaches.”
Shawn Schaefferkoetter | 6-1 | 180 | RB | Wibaux, Mont. | Wibaux HS
Prep: Two-time All-State performer for the Longhorns… Four-time All-Conference during his prep career… Rushed for 3,440 yards and managed 1,025 receiving yards during his prep career… Won a State Championship in 2014 as a Longhorn…
Personal: Son of Shelly Schaefferkoetter… Siblings: Brothers Cory Schaefferkoetter and Andre & Jordan Edwards… Plans to major in Sociology…
Why Rocky?: “I feel that Rocky could fulfill my educational needs and give me an opportunity to play the sport that I really enjoy.”
D.J. Scheffer | 5-10 | 185 | DB | Boise, Idaho| Capital HS
Prep: Earned Team Defensive Player of the Year Award for the Eagles in 2016… Named Second Team All-State Defensive Back… Selected to play in the Idaho Shrine All-Star Game… Recorded 113 tackles with five being tackles for a loss and three interceptions…
Personal: Son of Rhonda & Doug Scheffer… Sibling: Sister Jocelyn… Plans to major in Business…
Why Rocky?: “Because it’s located in a nice city similar to Boise. Also, I saw the great things that are and will be happening there over the years to come.”
Isaiah Schlegel | 5-11 | 170 | DB | Nampa, Idaho| Skyview HS
Prep: Letter in 3 varsity sports multiple years for the Hawks… Recorded 31 total tackles with three being tackles for a loss… Recovered one fumble and snagged three interceptions…
Personal: Son of Rachel & Markus Schlegel… Sibling: Sister Marisa… Plans to major in Health & Human Performance / Kinesiology…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because it feels like home, like a smaller version of Boise. The coaches are great because they look at you more than just a football player, they look at you as a person as well. The academics are great too especially the student to teacher ratio. However, overall I just love Rocky, the atmosphere of the school and I can’t wait to be a Bear!”
Noah Smelser | 6-0 | 215 | ATH | Billings, Mont.| Billings Central Catholic HS
Prep: Earned All-State and All-Conference Honors during his senior campaign for the Rams… Was voted by his teammates as the team’s Defensive MVP in 2016… Recorded 781 yards on 55 carries with seven touchdowns as a Senior…
Personal: Son of Stacie Grandpre… Grandma: Judy Smelser… Aunt: Toni McCann…
Why Rocky?: “I already know a lot of the players and the coaches seemed very supportive. I love that I will still be in Billings playing football and I still will have all my fans that can come support me, especially my family. I also like that the school is small and the education that you get is amazing.”
Cordell Shelton | 6-0 | 215 | DB | Meridian, Idaho | Mountain View HS
Prep: A part of Back to Back State 5A State Championships the past 2 season… Four year varsity letter winner… Place Second in the state on both the 4x100 & 4x200 relay teams during his prep career… Recorded 46 tackles and three interceptions during his junior campaign…
Personal: Son of Kate & Lawrence Shelton… Siblings: Brothers Chase & Alex… Sister Alexis… Plans to major in Aviation…
Why Rocky?: “I love the coaches, players, and the program that Coach Petrino is building. The city is fantastic and feels like home. I’ll also be able to fly and earn my pilots license during my four years at Rocky setting me up for a successful future in aviation.”
Craig Sowers | 6-0 | 235| OL | Laurel, Mont. | Laurel HS
Prep: Earned All-State honors at Center in 2016… Voted First Team All-Conference as a Center in 2016 as well… This past fall he earned Academic All-State for the Locomotives… A member of National Honors Society & On the Right Track at LHS to go along with his prep football career…
Personal: Son of Leann & Shelby... Sibling: Brother Blake… Plans to major in Aviation…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky has a very well respected Aviation program. I love the small class sizes and the personal touch and I am very excited to play football for Rocky.”
Del Rude Jr. | 5-9 | 190 | DB | Eagle, Idaho| Eagle HS
Prep: Earned First Team All-Conference honors in 2016 at Safety… Helped guide the Mustangs to the State Semi-finals… Recorded 21 solo tackles, 26 assisted tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery…
Personal: Son of Glo & Del Rude… Sibling: Sister Ellie… Plans to major in Environmental Sciences…
Why Rocky?: “Rocky has an amazing coaching staff. Their players all welcomed me with open arms, and I am lucky to help build up an amazing program.”
Colton Williams | 5-11 | 175 | RB | Big Horn, Wyo.| Big Horn HS
Prep: Two-time State Champion…Two-time First Team All-State & two-time All-Conference… Named to the Casper-Star Tribune’s Super 25 Team… Earned Casper-Star Tribune’s Super 25 Offensive Player of the Year… As a Ram he rushed for 3,209 yards, racked up 928 receiving yards, and 4,824 all-purpose yards… He also recorded 60 touchdowns during his career…
Personal: Son of Teresa & Mike Williams… Siblings: Brother Bryce… Sister Marisa… Undecided with his major…
Why Rocky?: “I chose Rocky because I loved the coaching staff and their approach to both football and education. I liked both the education opportunities available along with the opportunity for great football. I had a great time on my visit meeting new people and hanging out with them. I made some good friends, and I look forward to helping build this program and being a part of something special.”
ROCKY FOOTBALL 2017 SIGNING DAY ROSTER
Name HT WT POS HOMETOWN (PREVIOUS SCHOOL)
Keair Adgerson 5-10 175 DB Helena, Mont. (Helena HS)
Jacob Barnard 6-3 285 OL Chandler, Ariz. (Hamilton HS)
John Bass 6-1 165 QB Kearns, Utah (Kearns HS)
*Jace Billy 5-11 245 DE Havre, Mont. (Montana State)
*John Boogaard 6-6 280 OL Monument, Colo. (Western State College)
Kyle Brauhn 6-2 195 TE Cut Bank, Mont. (Cut Bank HS)
Filiotama’ita’i Church 6-1 220 OLB/DE Nampa, Idaho (Skyview HS)
Ryder Conklin 6-2 285 OL Sweet, Idaho (Emmett HS)
Brayden Crowley 5-9 190 RB Roundup, Mont. (Roundup HS)
Todd Durham 5-11 195 OLB Eagle, Idaho (Eagle HS)
*Kirk Durtsche 5-11 200 DB Casper, Wyo. (Chadron State)
Kyle Frazier 6-0 220 LB Meridian, Idaho (Rocky Mountain HS)
*Max Gray 6-0 185 WR Arlington, Wash. (Chadron State)
Mitchell Goodwin 6-3 220 DE Bountiful, Utah (Viewmont HS)
Tyler Hilliard 5-9 160 ATH Gillette, Wyo. (Campbell County HS)
Blaine Jansen 6-3 285 OL Cut Bank, Mont. (Cut Bank HS)
*Kendell Jefferson 6-1 175 DB Pasadena, Calif. (Pasadena CC)
Drew Korf 6-1 185 QB Boise, Idaho (Capital HS)
Alex Lindsey 5-10 155 WR Boise, Idaho (Capital HS)
Logan Martin 6-2 175 P/K Great Falls, Mont. (Great Falls HS)
Jake McBride 6-0 270 OL Meridian, Idaho (Meridian HS)
Nolan McCafferty 6-0 200 LB Sheridan, Wyo. (Big Horn HS)
Jaryd McCray 6-5 270 OL Chandler, Ariz. (Hamilton HS)
Luke Miller 6-0 190 LS Vancouver, Wash. (Mountain View HS)
Sean Miller 6-0 175 DB Columbia Falls, Mont. (Columbia Falls HS)
Oliver Munch 5-10 150 WR Boise, Idaho (Boise HS)
Chad Nebel 6-0 225 LB/DE Billings, Mont. (Shepherd HS)
Derrick Olsen 6-4 170 WR Helena, Mont. (Helena HS)
Mason Olsen 6-3 185 ATH Powell, Wyo. (Powell HS)
Lucas Overton 6-1 195 WR Emmett, Idaho (Emmett HS)
Tryston Peery 6-0 185 ATH Riverton, Utah (Summit Academy HS)
Brock Peterson 5-7 155 ATH Clyde Park, Mont. (Shields Valley HS)
Shawn Schaefferkoetter 6-1 180 RB Wibaux, Mont. (Wibaux, Mont.)
D.J. Scheffer 5-10 185 DB Boise, Idaho (Capital HS)
Isaiah Schlegel 5-11 170 DB Nampa, Idaho (Skyview HS)
Noah Smelser 6-0 215 ATH Billings, Mont. (Billings Central HS)
Cordell Shelton 6-0 175 DB Boise, Idaho (Mountain View HS)
Craig Sowers 6-2 235 OL Laurel, Mont. (Laurel HS)
*Jake Tuivaiave 6-4 295 DL Tacoma, Wash. (Mount San Antonio College)
Del Rude Jr. 5-9 190 DB Eagle, Idaho (Eagle HS)
*Paris Wilcox 5-10 190 DB Miami, Fla. (Tennessee State)
Colton Williams 5-11 175 RB Sheridan, Wyo. (Big Horn HS)
*indicated enrolled in January of 2017
--GO BATTLIN’ BEARS--