Derek Elmendorff (El Paso, Texas/Franklin) wants to be an FBS offensive lineman. Even more so, Elmendorff wants to be a dentist.
When Elmenroff, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound offensive lineman, made an official visit over the weekend to San Antonio, Texas, to check out the UTSA campus, he became a fan of the campus environment and the overall atmosphere of the city. More importantly, Elmendorff was a huge fan of the school’s medical reputation, particularly the reputation of its dental program.
After the visit, Elmendorff -- who entered the weekend committed to UTEP -- decided to switch his pledge to UTSA. He became the Roadrunners’ 12th commit of the 2013 recruiting class.
“It was more about academics and what I saw on the campus,” said Elmendorff, explaining his switch from UTEP. “I want to be a dentist, and with the medical program and dental program there, I just saw it as a better opportunity with my future."
UTSA’s surprising first season in FBS play also aided Elmendorff’s decision. The Roadrunners were 8-4 as a competitor in the WAC after spending time in FCS play.
Offensive lineman coach Jim Marshall was Elmendorff’s primary recruiting contact at UTSA. His player host for the weekend was sophomore center Nate Leonard.
“It was crazy,” Elmendorff said of the visit. “When I went down, you could tell that everyone is united. The city of San Antonio and the school is about winning. They’re not just there to be there. The city is behind them, the school is behind them, and it’s just a great atmosphere.”
Elmendorff, who is expecting to play guard at the next level, helped Franklin to a 10-2 record this year. The Cougars advanced to the second round of the Texas Class 5A Division I playoffs.