MISSOULA – Bobby Hauck’s return to Montana made many Griz fans feel nostalgic. Now it’s starting to feel like a family reunion, as well.
Hauck’s nephew, Ryan Tirrell, gave his verbal commitment on Thursday to play for the Grizzlies. The 6-foot-2, nearly 200-pound junior from Missoula Loyola made it official on Twitter.
Super excited to announce my commitment to the University of Montana! Go Griz #RTD pic.twitter.com/w6lapzyZDB
— Ryan Tirrell (@ryantirrell24) April 19, 2018
Tirrell has become a standout running back and linebacker for the Rams. He said the Griz plan to play him on defense, either at outside linebacker or safety.
Tirrell admitted his uncle returning to coach Montana definitely helped him make his decision, but even before that he always wanted to suit up for the Griz.
“Well, right when he offered me I just kind of, I’ve been dreaming about playing here my whole life considering that I grew up here,” said Tirrell. “It was just unreal when he offered me. When I was on my junior day and toured the locker room and the new facilities and whatnot, it just felt right.”
Tirrell rushed for more than 700 yards and 15 touchdowns last fall, while also making 62 tackles on a Loyola team that made it to the Class B state semifinals. He said he didn’t hesitate to make the decision now, adding it relieves a lot of the pressure going into his senior season.
