Austell, Ga., linebacker Dorian Wood made an official visit to Kent State over the weekend. Shortly after returning home the 6-foot-2, 220-pounder contacted KSU head coach Doug Martin and pledged his verbal commitment to the Golden Flashes.

"My visit went really well, I enjoyed it," Wood said. "I just committed. I called coach Martin when I got home. Today is his birthday and he said that was his birthday present."

Wood chose the Golden Flashes over Memphis, Georgia Southern, Tulane and several others.

"Overall, I felt like I had a better chance to play early there and they have a good, strong academic program," he said. "I want to go there too because they have a better chance of winning and I think we'll win a (Mid-American Conference) championship soon."

During the weekend Wood had the chance to bond with the current players. That experience contributed to his decision.

"Danny Sadler was my host," Wood said. "He's a real nice guy and down to earth. I got along real with the players, so that helped."

One thing that didn't help the Golden Flashes was the weather. But, a little snow and frigid temperatures weren't going to scare off a fierce linebacker from the Peach State.

"It was snowing the whole time and I didn't see one piece of grass," he said. "I've seen snow before but it's been a long time. It didn't scare me off; I can handle it."

Jason Nichols handled the recruitment of Wood for the Golden Flashes but defensive coordinator Pete Rekstis had a hand in luring Wood to Kent.

"The one thing I really liked is what coach Rekstis said about who starts," Wood said. "He said the best player in practice that week is going to play. He said he doesn't play favorites, even if you are a senior."

Wood recruited over 260 tackles and 10 sacks during his last two seasons at South Cobb High School. He is the teammate of current Kent State commitment, Charles Laster.


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