Marcus Van Pelt-Morenz '25 Recruiting Profile

Hello, my name is Marcus Van Pelt-Morenz.  I am a current student at Valley High School in Gilcrest Colorado. My collegiate goals are to continue playing football for as long as I can, as well as get a degree. My aspiration is to one day be sitting in a chair waiting for my name to be called for the NFL Draft, followed by screams and cheers! Prior to entering high school, I missed nearly 2 years of school, causing me to have complications with academics.  I am currently on a 504 to bridge the gap.  The last two years, I have pushed myself, more than what I thought was possible to catch up academically.  I still struggle with some subjects, but I am willing to put the extra work in.  I am very successful in biology, as it is my favorite subject! I never would have expected to even like biology!

I would be a good candidate for a team because I am very coachable. At times, I am a very good tackle dummy. I take advice and follow directions. I enjoy helping the younger players feel accepted and part of the team. I am a leader on and off the field. I do struggle with gaining weight, and I will never be the tallest person on the team. Entering my freshman year in high school,  I was 110 lbs and 5 '4’. I am currently 145 lbs and 5'6’.  I have heard all of the comments about my size, I can't complain when God gave me 10 fingers, legs, and a good heartbeat! The last two years, I have utilized the weight room to build muscle and gain weight.  I plan on continuing utilizing the weight room to become stronger, faster, and of course add weight. I try to stay active during all seasons, this year I joined the swim team! Of course, I wasn't fast, I put 100% effort into this sport. I knew it would help make me stronger and build my endurance on the football field. I continued to push myself throughout the season to improve my times for each heat I was entered into.  Although I didn’t qualify for State, I did improve my times drastically.  

I have a sense of humor and it tends to come out when I am happy or excited! So therefore you will hear it often on and off the field!  I am a firm believer that if my spirit and the spirits of my teammates is “up,” we will play better.  I do want to make it clear, yes, I have a sense of humor, but I also know that it is important to continue to be focused during practices, games, film, and meetings.