Jordan Bartok had a few options when it came time for him to make a decision on what path he would pursue post high school and college football.
Bartok, who was recently named Most Valuable Defensive Player for the Blue Team in the Southern Illinois All-Star game and who was a First Team All Conference selection as a linebacker and running back this past season for Harrisburg, could walk on and play for SIU or take a scholarship and play at nearby McKendree in Lebanon.
Citing a decision to stay close to home, Bartok's decision was one he wrestled, yet one he feels will be best for him.
"McKendree is a great football program," Bartok said after signing scholarship papers recently. "They have had several winnings records under head coach Mike Babcock and it's close to home so I won't be far from my family and friends."
Bartok said he will be redshirting his freshman year for the Bearcats in an effort to get a better grasp of the type of program McKendree runs.
"As of right now I will be a linebacker, but I will play where I am needed," Bartok added. "I want my role to be a leader and a guy that they can trust on the field. I will work on my speed and strength this summer. I feel that my ability to read the offense and my hard work will set me apart from the other players."
Bartok said that he is undecided on a major. The outgoing senior was also named this past year to the All South and All State Team as well as was a Blue-Gray All American.
Michael Dann covers prep and college sports for the Southern Illinois Local Media News Group. Follow him on Twitter: @spydieshooter.
