Two-star defensive tackle Fred Koloto (6-3, 270, 5.2), from Palo Alto (Calif.), committed to San Jose State on Dec. 17, the day after his team lost in the division II state championship to Orange Lutheran (42-28).
"I was supposed to be taking my official visit to San Jose State that weekend, but had to cancel because of our game," Koloto (ranked No. 129 by Scout.com) said. "But after we got back I decided to stop by San Jose State and let coach Dick Tomey know. My whole family went with me. My mom, my dad, my uncle…we all wanted to be there."
Although Koloto didn't tell coach Tomey until Dec. 17, he says that his recruiting coach Brent Brennan and offensive coordinator Steve Morton both knew about a week earlier when they visited him at home. "When they were at my house I told them I was going to commit to them, but that I wanted to tell coach Tomey myself. Apparently they were joking with him that whole week making him think that I was going to choose Washington instead."
Koloto visited the Huskies on Dec. 8 for his only official visit. "I really enjoyed my visit, but it just didn’t feel right," Koloto said. "I talked it over with my parents and told them that my heart and gut was with San Jose State.
"I really like where the program is heading," Koloto said. "I like coach Tomey a lot and I think he'll lead them far. They won nine games this year and a bowl game. Last year they only won three games. They are up-and-coming and I really want to keep it going. I want to go there and attract more big recruits there and help them get to where Boise State is.
"I'm excited and can't wait to go there," Koloto said. "I wish it were February so I could sign the papers now. I can't wait for the future. It's gonna be fun."
Another factor in Koloto's decision was distance. "San Jose State is only about 30 minutes away," Koloto said. "It's close to my family and friends and I really wanted to have them supporting me. I love this area and it's a good opportunity for me to play."
Koloto says he's 100% solid with the Spartans and chose them over Washington, Fresno State, San Diego State and Utah. All of his favorites offered.
He reports a 2.7 core GPA and a 1210 SAT.