With less than four months remaining in the school year, millions of senior student athletes around the United States are trying to figure out their next chapter after high school. Even here in our community, some students at Oakdale High School are feeling the pressure of selecting a college or university. For senior Louis Marsella, his future became slightly clearer on Wednesday, Feb. 3 when he signed with Humboldt State.
“The last couple of years, not knowing whether or not I would be playing football at the next level or signing with a school, it just feels great having it signed and moving forward to positive things at Humboldt State,” said the linebacker.
Earlier in the season, Marsella’s choices were Fresno State, Sacramento State or even Southern Oregon. With a number of schools in mind and the clock ticking, Marsella made his decision. Although Humboldt State was a late arrival to show interest in Marsella, the Lumberjacks’ persistent efforts impressed the teen.
“They showed a lot of interest late. They sent coaches to look at me. When I got time to talk to them, I got a good feeling about it,” recalled Marsella. “It’s a great program. I believe I can grow as a player and as a person at that school. It has great coaching and coaching staff, the guys seem cool too. So those things helped me decide that Humboldt State was for me.”
The senior went to campuses and explored his options along with his parents, John and Kristi Marsella.
“We are very proud and happy with the way he handled the whole process. He made this decision on his own. One of the biggest factors was the fit. The coaches and the priorities of the program with the other players, a lot of it reminded him of Oakdale and he has had such a great experience here, and he knows that will help him be successful up there,” Mrs. Marsella said of her son’s signing.
Marsella was a two-way starter for the Mustangs varsity football team this season. He credits his teammates and coaches with his on field success, leading toward his collegiate career.
“They (Head Coach Trent Merzon and the Mustang staff) had a huge impact on me. They preach ‘The person who grinds, wins the game.’ I believe that is the same for college and the rest of my life. The coaching staff and even some of the players, they gave me inspiration to push myself,” the future Humboldt State Lumberjack said.
Marsella is currently undecided on what he will be majoring in this fall, but has narrowed it down to business management or kinesiology.
