RECRUITING: Visit, patriotism solidifies Atimalala’s commitment to Army

When a college football prospect takes a recruiting trip, the visit generally gives him an idea of where he will fit in with football, education and the college lifestyle.

Desert Pines senior defensive tackle Tala Atimalala experienced something extra — patriotism.

Atimalala solidified his oral commitment to Army over the weekend while attending the Black Knights’ 31-17 loss to Navy in Philadelphia. He committed to Army in October, and became even more energized to play at West Point after watching the historic rivalry game.

“That’s America’s game right there. It was a great thrill, phenomenal,” Atimalala said. “Seeing all the cadets, I had a great feeling that that’s going to be me in a couple months.”

Atimalala’s father, Tala Atimalala Sr., has served in the U.S. Army Reserve, and his son takes pride in that he will be representing more than just a football team on Saturdays.

“It’s more than just football,” the younger Atimalala said. “It’s about duty, honor, country. Serving my country is a big thing for me.”

Atimalala also received recruiting interest from Brigham Young, Oregon State and UNLV, but didn’t want to wait for additional scholarship offers after Army pursued him for more than a year.

The 6-foot, 265-pound Atimalala said Army recruited him to play on the interior of its defensive line, possibly as a nose guard.

He was a force on both sides of the line of scrimmage as a senior, earning first-team All-Northeast League honors at offensive guard and defensive tackle as the 5-5 Jaguars reached the Sunrise Region playoffs.

VISIT UPDATES — Palo Verde running back Brandon Wright visited San Diego State last weekend while Las Vegas High receiver Marquan Major took a trip to Idaho, but neither player committed on their visit.

Wright said in a text message his visit to San Diego State “went pretty good,” but he also has a planned visit to California on Jan. 14.

The senior running back rushed for 1,632 yards and 25 touchdowns while leading the Panthers (12-1) to the Sunset Region title game.

Major said he will probably visit UNLV at some point before the Feb. 2 signing day.

The 6-foot-3-inch Major was part of an explosive offense for the Wildcats as a senior, catching 43 passes for 545 yards and four TDs as Las Vegas (11-2) advanced to the Sunrise title game.