Marcus Lenhardt, an honorable mention All-Southern Idaho Conference tight end, became the Coyotes' first official recruit during a letter of intent signing ceremony at Eagle High on Monday morning.

“I’ve always wanted to play college football, but I never expected to have an opportunity like this. To be the first guy at a new program, I’m just excited and thankful to be in this position,'' Lenhardt said.

"I chose the C of I because I know it’s a strong school academically, but also because of Coach (Mike) Moroski. He believes in recruiting high-character guys, and I think that’s going to make us a better team.”

Moroski was hired in January to run the NAIA program at the Caldwell school, which reinstated football last summer after disbanding the sport in 1977. The team begins play in the Frontier Conference in the fall of 2014.

It will be the College of Idaho's first football game in 37 years.

“No. 1, Marcus is a great kid,'' Moroski said. “He is an outstanding football player and his upside is tremendous. Marcus is tall, athletic and very physical. He is truly a quality recruit.''

The 6-foot-4 Lenhardt, who plans to pursue a business degree at the C of I, caught 27 passes for 343 yards and four touchdowns this past season to help Eagle make its fifth consecutive 5A state playoff appearance.

He is the brother of Boise State women's basketball player Lauren Lenhardt.