RECRUITING: Stars’ Sims makes history with Southern Utah commit

Even with the season over, Agassi Prep’s football program is still making history in 2010.

Senior cornerback LeShaun Sims orally committed to Southern Utah on Saturday, becoming the first player in program history to accept an athletic scholarship to a four-year school.

Southern Utah was the first school to extend an offer to the speedy Sims, and he didn’t feel like waiting to make his decision.

“I can’t describe it,” Sims said of becoming Agassi Prep’s first football player to play in college. “It feels good. I look forward to going there and working hard to get better.”

Sims also received interest from New Mexico State and Northern Arizona, but felt ready to commit to the Thunderbirds after head coach Ed Lamb paid a visit to Agassi Prep’s campus earlier this week. Sims plans to make his official visit to Southern Utah in January.

Agassi Prep coach Colt Goodman said college recruiters were impressed by Sims’ attention to detail.

“LeShaun has skills, and he’s a coachable kid,” Goodman said. “He’s a ball-hawk who loves to hit. After looking at film, SUU said, ‘This is our guy.’”

The 6-foot, 160-pound Sims was part of a breakthrough season for Agassi Prep.

The Stars (7-3) reached the Class 2A state semifinals and achieved their first winning season since moving to the 11-man level in 2008.

Sims logged 52 tackles and four interceptions on defense as a senior. He also caught 26 passes for 406 yards and five touchdowns while filling in at wide receiver.

Goodman said he’ll remember Sims not only for helping take his program to new heights, but for his team-minded approach and showing younger players the ropes.

“He’s totally unselfish,” Goodman said. “A kid like LeShaun Sims is never replaceable. Players like this, you don’t forget for the rest of your life.”