West Linn’s Mark Hamper ready to make mark in Power Four football

WEST LINN, Ore. (KOIN) -- There aren’t many people who have had a more interesting college football journey over the last year than West Linn native Mark Hamper.

In fact, Hamper said if someone told him a year ago about what was about to happen he would have said, "‘Gosh, the genie must’ve popped out of somewhere' because I never would’ve imagined this."

Hamper didn’t get offered a scholarship by Idaho until December of his senior season. In fact, most college coaches recruited him as a defensive player.

After redshirting his freshman year for the Vandals, the wide receiver exploded onto the FCS scene last season and was up for the division’s Freshman of the Year award.

“I was telling Sam Leavitt, I never think I’d be in an position to run a kids camp with him, but it’s super cool. It’s extremely humbling to come from a smaller school and have to work your way up. I’m super grateful for the people who helped me get there,” said Hamper.

In December, Hamper hit the transfer portal and initially landed on Wisconsin. However, during spring football he decided to change course.

“Learned a lot, gained a lot there,” Hamper said of his time in Madison. “Just wasn’t the best fit.”

Hamper once again hit the transfer portal, committing to Cal on May 1.

The Golden Bears program "was just the best fit for everything I’m looking for,” Hamper said. “I really looked at it like, how can I maximize the next three years? Not only to elevate me only in football but also life. It’s a great university for making connections and taking the next step towards the business world and life.”

Through the ups and downs of the past six months, Hamper remains thankful for his West Linn roots.

“If I would’ve gone to a different high school, I probably wouldn’t be in the position I am today,” said the wide receiver. “That just speaks to how great of a community this is, how great the coach is and just how great of people they are, truthfully.”

He also remains thankful for how his journey began, scrapping and clawing his way to Power Four football.

“The chip on my shoulder is not going anywhere,” said the rising sophomore. “That’s the reason why I’m here today. Just excited to keep going and keep proving people wrong.”