Petrishen at ease with decision to play football at Penn State

With the most difficult decision of his life behind him, Central Catholic safety John Petrishen did the only thing left to do Sunday.

He took a nap.

“My mother said I needed it,” he said.

When he woke up, he explained why he decided to commit to Penn State — about three days earlier than expected — over Pitt and Virginia.

“I loved the campus and I just think it's a good mix of Pitt and Virginia,” he said. Petrishen, who was the last uncommitted, high-level WPIAL recruit, said he canceled his scheduled visit to Virginia last weekend because his entire family was unable to make the trip.

“I always liked Penn State,” he said. “I always liked Pitt a lot, too, and Virginia.”Petrishen, who lives in Lower Burrell, credited Penn State defensive coordinator Bob Shoop for recruiting him “really, really hard.” He said Shoop visited him at home, at school and at his basketball games.

Petrishen said he will miss the recruiting process.

“It's sad for it to come to an end,” he said. “I don't know what my parents are going to talk about anymore.

“Every night, it was the topic at the dinner table. Things are going to be different around the house.”

Petrishen said he called Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi to tell him he will sign with Penn State.

“He was very understanding,” he said. “He told me if I change my mind by (Wednesday), feel free to pick up the phone and call him. He wished me nothing but the best.

“I have nothing but respect for Pitt. I have a great relationship with them. I don't want to be an enemy to Pitt fans.”

Jerry DiPaola is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. Reach him at jdipaola@tribweb.com or via Twitter @JDiPaola_Trib.