Hecker trades one red jersey for another

SANDPOINT — Following in his father’s footsteps, playing close to home and the chance to play on brand new red field turf were all contributing factors in Sandpoint’s Cody Hecker choosing to play football next season at Eastern Washington University.

Hecker, a 6-0, 210 pound running back, celebrated National Signing Day on Wednesday by signing a full ride scholarship to play football in the Big Sky Conference.

“The fact they’re (EWU) offering a full-ride scholarship is one of the coolest things ever,” said Hecker, who was also recruited by Montana, Idaho State and Northern Arizona University. “The red turf they’re getting is really cool to be a part of.”

The Eagles, who boast one of the top programs in the Big Sky, are following Boise State’s lead and installing turf in their school color. The coaches told Hecker they’re slotting him in at second team running back, but quickly acknowledged the Eagles’ linebacker coach is already lobbying for his services.

Sandpoint head coach Mike Mitchell described Hecker as a kid who plays with a lot of heart, and sees EWU as a great fit. Running backs coach Derek Dickinson believes Hecker has the size and speed to excel in the college game.

“He’ll do well, no question,” said Dickinson. “With the tools he has and his athletic ability, I definitely see him succeeding at the next level.”

Football runs in the family genes for Hecker, whose father Curt Hecker played linebacker at Boise State from 1978-82 and still has a national championship ring from when the Broncos won the 1-AA title in 1980.

In a bit of an ironic twist, Curt was recruited to BSU as a running back before moving to the other side of the ball. The proud father said his son’s signing brought back some fond memories.

“He doesn’t know yet what he has in front of him,” said Hecker, who plans to attend as many games as possible. “The sky is the limit on where he can go with it.”

Barb Hecker was also pleased with Cody’s decision, noting playing in college had been his goal for as long as she could remember.

“I’m happy he’s getting to live his dream,” said Barb Hecker, citing part of his inspiration. “He’s strived to do better than his dad did.”

EWU showed the most interest in Hecker, no doubt enamored with his combination of size, speed and power. On some runs, Hecker would leap over potential tacklers, and  on others, he would blast right through them. He’ll join fellow Bulldog Mat Lawrence in Cheney, where Lawrence is currently playing defensive end and possibly tight end.

Hecker, who does back flips with surprising ease for someone his size, plans to major in communications and possibly theatrical arts.He wished to thank all of the people who helped him along the way, including Steve Sodorff, who helped him rehab a torn knee last year, his coaches and teammates, the whole staff at FASTER, and of course his mom and dad.