Empen discusses his decision

Northeast Goose Lake TE/OL Luke Empen accepted a preferred walk-on opportunity with the University of Iowa over the weekend and will play wherever the Hawkeyes want in order to get on the field. We caught up with the 6-foot-7, 230-pound Empen to discuss his decision and much more.

Q: Why did you commit to Iowa?

EMPEN: The team and coaches were super welcoming and gave me confidence that Iowa was the place for me.

Q: Who else was being considered before you decided?

EMPEN: Drake, NIU, and Iowa were the main three. Also, Minnesota State-Mankato.

Q: When Iowa offered the walk-on spot, did you feel it was a matter of time before picking them or were you torn between others?

EMPEN: I think it was a matter of time before I chose Iowa.

Q: Did you grow up a fan of Iowa? Did that play a role in your decision?

EMPEN: I did not, but it eventually grew on me because of friends and other relatives and such. After going to several games and visits, I could feel that this place was special and I wanted to be a part of it.

Q: Did the coaches play a factor in your final decision?

EMPEN: Absolutely. Coach Ferentz and his staff have rich tradition at Iowa so I know I can trust what they do and say.

Q: Was it hard giving up basketball?

EMPEN: It is, but I will get used to it. I will be busy enough to keep my mind off of it.

Q: How was your official visit at Iowa this weekend?

EMPEN: It was very good. I know some other the guys through other sports (Ben Subbert) so we clicked right away. I was able to get to know some of the others.

Q: What was your favorite part of the trip?

EMPEN: Eating with the guys and having meetings with the coaches.

Q: Where did you commit at while on the visit?

EMPEN: In Coach Ferentz's office.

Q: What was the reaction by the coaches?

EMPEN: They were happy. They said it was fantastic and a great decision.

Q: What did they say about your future position?

EMPEN: (It is) tight end or offensive line. I told them anywhere I can get on the field, I will be willing to play.

Q: What was the hardest part of recruiting?

EMPEN: Staying calm and not getting overwhelmed with everything (that) is going on throughout the process.

Q: What are your plans to get ready for college football?

EMPEN: Work out and just try to get faster and stronger.

As a senior, Empen finished with 51 catches for 598 yards and 6 touchdowns for Northeast Community High School in Goose Lake, IA.

See highlights from Empen's senior year in the video below.

Iowa's Class of 2018 walk-ons:

Colton Dinsdale- 6-foot-0, 212-pound LB from Reinbeck, IA (Iowa Western)

Nick Anderson- 6-foot-3, 230-pound LB from Waukee, IA (Iowa Western)

Matt Fagan- 6-foot-5, 265-pound OL from Council Bluffs, IA (St. Albert)

Turner Pallissard- 6-foot-2, 220-pound FB from Frankfort, IL (Lincoln-Way East)

Blair Brooks- 6-foot-3, 190-pound WR from Marion, IA (Marion)

Connor Ruth- 6-foot-0, 215-pound FB from Seward, NE (Seward)

Kordell Stillmunkes- 5-foot-9, 180-pound WR from Cuba City, WI (Cuba City)

Luke Empen- 6-foot-7, 230-pound TE from Goose Lake, IA (Northeast)

Mitchell Riggs- 6-foot-2, 215-pound LB from West Des Moines, IA (Dowling)