Beirne commits to Arizona

By the third stop of the Bryson Beirne Weekend Tour, the strong-armed passer had seen enough.

Beirne gave Arizona an oral commitment to accept a scholarship offer yesterday, culminating a remarkable eight-month period. The senior-to-be, an undisputed offensive leader of last year's Pac-Five squad, suffered an ACL injury midway through the season.

Since then, it's been a sometimes tortuous time of rest, rehab and rigor for the 6-foot-2, 215-pound quarterback.

"It's been an amazing eight months," he said yesterday afternoon.

On Friday, with his knee in good shape, Beirne began a slew of three one-day camps at three Pac-10 schools. Oregon State offered him a scholarship on Friday, and from there Beirne went to California's camp. By Sunday, after participating in Arizona's camp, he was in love.

"It's over. I won't have to worry about anything else now," said Beirne, who couldn't get over his fortune. From the staff to the facilities and weather, there couldn't have been a better fit, he said.

Arizona made it easy by offering a scholarship before he returned to the islands. Both Oregon State and Arizona showed no reservations, despite Beirne's knee injury.

"They've seen injuries like this in the past, and they aren't worried about it," said Beirne, who has rehabbed the leg extensively since the injury. He credits physical therapist Pat Ariki and Dr. Mark Shaieb.

"I wouldn't be anywhere near where I am today without them. My coaches at Pac-Five have really supported me through this injury, too," he added.