A Born Spartan

Patrick Rigan, a 6-foot-6, 235-pound, defensive lineman, from Traverse City (MI) St. Francis is one of the “Top 25” prospects in the state of Michigan, according to Scout.com. Rigan had some scholarship offers under his belt but a decision to give Michigan State his verbal commitment was an easy one.

“My sister attends Michigan State and so do a lot of my friends.” Patrick Rigan said.

“I’ve also been friends with (MSU verbal commitment) Eric Gordon since we were in grade school and although we don’t go to the same high school, we’ll be able to play our college football at the same school.”

Rigan will be a three-year varsity starter in 2005, as a sophomore, Rigan played defensive tackle and offensive tackle, Patrick moved around as a junior, playing defensive end, defensive tackle, tight end and offensive tackle.

“I wear a couple of different numbers during the game,” Rigan explained. “Depends on if I’m playing tight end or offensive tackle, if our coach says he wants to get the ball in my hands, I’ll wear a single digit number and play tight end.

“Michigan State told me that I’ll be playing defensive end. My commitment is solid. I really like the coaching staff at State and the facilities are great. Eric (Gordon) and I are already talking about making it to East Lansing for as many games as we can this year.

“I’m just really excited. Half my family has gone to Michigan State and now I’m going to get the chance to be a Spartan and play football.”

Rigan was named all-region as a junior but he didn’t leave his junior year as healthy as he would’ve liked. Patrick broke his foot during his junior year and had shoulder surgery after the season.

“I had a few injuries but I’m 110% ready to go,” said Rigan. “We were 11-0 my sophomore year and now that my recruiting is behind me, I want to get my team back the state championship.” Rigan chose Michigan State over offers from Indiana and Central Michigan.