Heimuli to stay at Oregon
University of Oregon defensive tackle Ricky Heimuli has informed head coach Chip Kelly that he will forgo his religious mission and remain in Eugene for the 2011 season.
The 6-4, 318-pound Glendale, Utah native was credited with nine tackles, including one tackle for loss, and broke up one pass in 13 appearances as a true freshman this season.
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"This was a personal decision that after I sought opinions from others, I made on my own," Heimuli said. "Playing football at the college level and going to school at Oregon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I feel that I have a great thing going.
"I love my church and will always put the Lord first in my life but trust that he will lead me along the way. I just don't want to lose this opportunity that is in front of me right now."
The Ducks completed the 2010 season with a 12-1 record and a 22-19 setback to Auburn in the BCS National Championship Game.