For the second time in a week, a Manhattan High golfer has taken the next step toward competing at the college level. This time, it's a member of the boys' team.

Tyler Norris, a senior who began competing with the varsity team as a freshman, signed his Letter of Intent to play at Kansas State on Tuesday at MHS.

This comes a week after Brooke Thilges signed to play at Nebraska-Omaha.

Norris, who has been one of the team leaders since his sophomore season, had been stuck on K-State from the beginning of his college considerations.

"(KSU) is pretty much always been where I've wanted to go. I like that it's close to home and it's a really good school."

A large contributing factor to his decision was that his father, Tim Norris, is head coach of the Wildcats.

"I like the way my dad runs his team," he said. "My dad and I are very close and so I think it'll be fun to play for him in the K-State program."

Brad Ficke, head coach of Manhattan's team, said Norris has always been dedicated to improve his game.

"I coached Tyler in his freshman year as the JV coach, and then again as a junior when Larry (Becraft) retired," Ficke said. "He's always been a team leader — not as vocal about it as I'd like — but a solid performer overall."

Norris moved up to the varsity level halfway through his freshman season and has never looked back, performing consistently for another two seasons leading into his senior year. Along with high school tournaments, Norris frequently competes in Kansas Junior Golf Association events in the summer, among others.

In the spring, Norris will compete for the last time as an Indian with the support of three additional seniors and several other younger talents that look to make up one of MHS' strongest teams in recent years.

Norris will remain focused on the task of a successful senior season before competing for K-State in 2010.

"I think we have a good chance to win state this year and that's what I'll stay focused on," Norris said.