If you’re a Division II football prospect, when Pittsburg State comes calling, it is usually a good idea to answer.
Grove senior Connor Dickey answered that call on Tuesday, signing a letter of intent to play for the Gorillas during a ceremony at the Grove High School library.
“It feels awesome,” Dickey said. “I finally get to live my dream.”
Dickey began his high school career at Chaparral in Kansas, where he was a two-time all-league selection, averaging 100 tackles per season. After moving to Grove, the 6-2, 240-pounder recorded 79 tackles and 219 yards rushing, earning all-district honors.
“At first, I was a little hesitant about [the move], but after I got here and realized the great group of guys that we have here, I really enjoyed it.”
Dickey now joins the winningest Division II program in the country. The Gorillas are coming off a 10-2 season that was capped by a win over Southwest Minnesota in the Mineral Water Bowl. Pitt State finished 7-2 in the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association, which includes schools in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.
“After I moved I didn’t have many options and they’re a very prestigious program,” Dickey said.
PSU has an all-time winning of percentage of 65.5 percent, four national titles and 27 conference titles. Current head coach Tim Beck is 36-12 in four seasons at the school, winning the national championship in 2011.
The Gorillas will open their 2014 season at home against Northeastern State of Oklahoma on Sept. 6
