It took a while, created some anxious moments and required a lot of patience, but California place-kicker Eric Stern finally joined the ranks of the recruited.
The 5-foot-10, 175-pound Condor graduate was offered by Utah State University and accepted about three weeks ago, although the announcement was made Monday.
The delay was a surprise after Stern’s illustrious high school career seemingly would have earned considerable interest among Division I college recruiters.
“Eric is one of the top kids in the nation coming out this year, without a doubt,” said Brad Bohn, Stern’s kicking coach. “Cal and Oregon signed (kickers) this year and he’s just as good as they are. Eric is a real competitive guy. He has a very strong leg. Utah State got a steal with Eric.
Stern made eight of 11 field goal attempts this season, including a pair of 57-yarders against South El Monte and Santa Fe. He also averaged 41.8 yards as a punter.