Iraq War veteran in Sacramento State recruiting class

Sacramento, CA – A former member of the United States Marine Corps who was deployed to Iraq is part of the Sacramento State football team's 2013 recruiting class.

Offensive lineman Justin Aysse, who played at Long Beach City College, has signed a national letter of intent with Sacramento State along with free safety Robby Kendall from Butte College in Chico, Calif.

Aysse, who turns 26 next month, played at LBCC in 2010 and 2011 before redshirting last season. The 6-foot-5, 275-pound tackle spent four years as a field radio operator in the Marine Corps. During his time with the USMC, he was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan with the 3rd Battalion, 11th Marines Artillery unit.

"Justin is an athletic tackle that will add depth at the position," Sacramento State coach Marshall Sperbeck said. "With his military background, he brings an added element of leadership to the team."

Kendall, a 5-11, 180-pounder from Reno, Nev., spent the last two seasons at Butte College and was named All-NorCal Conference this season.

Sacramento State posted a 6-5 record this season. The Big Sky Conference program is projected to return 17 of its 22 starters next season.