OCC's Isaiah Alonso commits to Utah State

COSTA MESA -- Orange Coast College sophomore tight end Isaiah Alonso will be taking that next big step in his athletic and academic careers, moving on to Utah State University in the fall.

"The recruiting process just another competition outside of football," Alonso said. "Interest during the season was the main thing I got until I got the offer from Utah State, which relieved a lot of stress. But one key factor that really sold me on Utah State was the fact that the coaches there seemed genuine and very thoughtful of my experience in and out outside of football -- the same way it is here at OCC -- and I just saw that transition would be very smooth when moving to something similar. I hope to provide the best version of myself on and off the football field for them."

Alonso, a 6-foot-5, 245-pound TE out of Mater Dei HS, was a force on the offensive line for the Pirates, as well as a steady pass-catcher, hauling in 21 receptions for 261 yards and two touchdowns for the Pirates in 2022. 

"It's been a long journey for Isaiah," OCC head coach Bubba Gonzalez said. "I have watched him grow from high school to now and he has overcome so many obstacles to get to this point. I am so proud of him and the resiliency he has shown. I have no doubt he will have success at Utah State and beyond."

After battling through a rough freshman campaign with injuries, Alonso has battled back and returned to the Pirates in 2022 stronger than ever. In addition to his pass-catching abilities, he helped anchor an O-line that racked up over 3,000 yards of offense, including 1,415 rushing yards and 1,680 passing yards. Highlighting that strong play was running back J.P. Segura, who ran behind Alonso and amassed 1,121 rushing yards and nine touchdowns this season.

"My experience at OCC was filled with lots of ups and downs, which were all important for me to be in the position of opportunity as I am now," Alonso said. "Throughout all the years I've been a part of OCC, I was able to grow with Coach Bubba and his coaching staff and see all the changes that progressively got better during my time here. Every individual who was a part of this team has molded me to be a better leader on and off the field. 

"OCC has been my home for the longest time and I had the opportunity to get two Associate's Degrees. OCC will always be a part of who I am."