It’s been said good things come in small packages.

Saturday, May 13, 2000

It’s been said good things come in small packages. But sometimes good things come in big packages.

In fact, in extra large packages.

The Morehead State Golden Eagles are getting something good in an extra large package after signing Ironton Fighting Tigers senior tackle Jay Colegrove to a letter-of-intent Saturday.

The All-Southeast district lineman tips the scales at 6-foot-3, 280 pounds. A two-year starter, Colegrove was a key figure in Ironton’s Division IV state runner-up team.

"I really liked Morehead," said Colegrove. "I talked to a lot of schools and I narrowed it down to Capital, Muskingum, Otterbein, and Union (Ky.). This was the best place for me."

Colegrove said Morehead St. had a lot to offer with its facilities, education, and schedule.

"They have a good schedule and this year they’re going to Utah and Florida," said Colegrove. "They have a great weight room and they’re putting down a new turf. It’s grass but it’s in a rubberize surface.

"And they really emphasize their athletics. You have three nights a week with your position coach at study table, and they run a grade check every two weeks. If you’re having trouble in class, you don’t practice. You spend your practice time studying. And they have a great tutor program."

The Fighting Tigers were 10-4 last season and 16-7 in Colegrove’s two years as a starter. Ironton coach Bob Lutz said Colegrove could be a solid player for the Eagles.

"Jay has the size and the ability. He’ll have to adjust to the college game and work hard, but he has the tools to play for them," said Lutz.

Coming from Ironton and playing in the state playoffs the past two seasons, Colegrove said Morehead has similar philosophies.

"They like to run the ball just like we do here. They do try to balance it with the pass, but they mainly like to run the ball," said Colegrove.

Although he is expected to play offensive tackle, Colegrove said there is a chance he could be moved to center.

"I don’t care where I play, I just want to play," said Colegrove.

Jay is the son of Jim and Rhonda Colegrove of Ironton.