Rask commits to Penn, rebounds with basketball

For the Corona del Mar High Sea Kings, Erik Rask’s decision to commit to the University of Pennsylvania came right on time.

Now that he’s picked a school, the Sea Kings’ starting point guard can focus on one of the biggest games of the season.

Rask, a senior linebacker who led the CdM football team in tackles, told Penn football coach Al Bagnoli Tuesday he was committing to the Quakers.

“I’m glad to be finished,” Rask said. “Now that I know where I’m going I can concentrate on basketball.”

Rask missed several basketball games to go on recruiting visits at Penn, UC Davis, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, which all offered him scholarships.

Tonight, Rask will play against Etiwanda, ranked No. 1 in CIF Southern Section Division I-A.

The Sea Kings are ranked No. 4 in Division III-A.

“I think we’re all really excited,” Rask said. “It’s a chance to show how far we’ve come this year. I think we definitely have a good shot at winning.”

Rask gave a verbal commitment to Penn. He’s expected to sign a national letter of intent Feb. 6.

The Pacific Coast League Defensive Player of the Year led the Sea Kings with 81 tackles, 24 assists, and 4.5 sacks.

Rask said he made his decision when he learned of his acceptance into the Wharton School of Business, the top business school in the world according to the Financial Times.

— Soraya Nadia McDonald