DiGiallonardo heading to Montana State

If you saw what Vince DiGiallonardo did on the gridiron as a

senior for the Polson Pirates, it's obvious he has the talent to

play at the next level.

And that's exactly what he'll be doing in the fall.

On Wednesday, Jan. 4, DiGiallonardo gave a verbal commitment to

Montana State University, looking to join the team as a kick

returner, safety and possibly a slot receiver.

If you saw what Vince DiGiallonardo did on the gridiron as a senior for the Polson Pirates, it's obvious he has the talent to play at the next level.

And that's exactly what he'll be doing in the fall.

On Wednesday, Jan. 4, DiGiallonardo gave a verbal commitment to Montana State University, looking to join the team as a kick returner, safety and possibly a slot receiver.

"They showed genuine interest in me since last May," DiGiallonardo said.

Montana State is coming off a season in which they received a first-round playoff bye before falling in their second playoff game to Sam Houston State. It was a solid year for the Bobcats, who were Big Sky co-champions with DiGiallonardo's newest rival, the Montana Grizzlies.

Joining a team on the rise and having the opportunity to play at the college level has DiGiallonardo ready for the next stage in his life.

"I'm really excited," DiGiallonardo said. "I've always wanted to play college football and at a high level."

While the football scene is one area DiGiallonardo looks to excel in, it's not the sole reason he decided on becoming a Bobcat, though it didn't hurt they're coming off a great season.

"They're a really good academic school," DiGiallonardo said. "And I really like the direction they're heading in."

Surprisingly, DiGiallonardo didn't receive much attention at the I-AA level. While the Frontier Conference schools all made offers to DiGiallonardo, the Grizzlies showed little to no interest in the star quarterback, while Army had some initial contact with DiGiallonardo before losing touch.

"I definitely feel like I wasn't looked at much by them," DiGiallonardo said of Montana. "But the Cats are moving in a better direction."

While the three-sport athlete (oh yeah, he plays basketball and track in addition to being an All-State star) probably could turn heads on the court and track, he's chosen to focus on football as he takes the next step.

"I'm looking forward to having a good offseason, getting into the weight room and focusing on school and football," DiGiallonardo said.

Big Sky opponents, beware. DiGiallonardo is coming to a stadium near you for the next four years, and if his Polson career was any indication, the Bobcats are going to be a force to reckon with in the FCS playoffs.