Lake County Gazette

Thomas Motzko insists he still only has eyes for South Dakota State.

Since the Highland Park 6-foot-1, 200 pound senior-to-be middle linebacker signed with the school, offers for his services have come pouring in, including at least five he received in the first two weeks after getting the South Dakota State offer.

“I was a little nervous not receiving an offer yet in the spring, but I wasn’t stressing about it,” Motzko told the Chicago Tribune. “I knew in my senior season if I did well like I planned to, somebody was going to offer me. After the first offer, I knew I would have a place to go, but it was nerve-racking before that.”

Motzko said he remains committed to South Dakota State and Highland Park Coach David Lindquist argues the program is getting a steal in landing him.

“Tom’s size and speed make him unique,” he said. “He has the potential to dominate from the defensive side of the ball. He’s special because he’s very coachable and has a strong work ethic. When coaches make a correction for Tom, it’s rare to need to address that correction more than once.”

At South Dakota State, Motzko said he feels right at home.

“The big difference that made me commit instead of waiting it out is after I visited South Dakota State, it was just a great feel and I understand in Division I that there is only a certain amount of spots for each position,” he said. “Those spots close down real fast. I couldn’t let this opportunity slip through my hands. It’s a great program and school. They were my first offer, the first one to pull the trigger and give me a chance. They are very committed to me, so I’m very committed to them.”