WATSONVILLE >> Monte Vista Christian School senior Nico Downie is trading sunny California for the frigid Midwest to begin his college football career.

The record-setting wide receiver announced on social media that he has committed to Valparaiso University, an NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision team located in Indiana.

“It’s real emotional,” said Downie, an Aptos resident, of committing. “I’ve played the last four years. And I started playing at 7 or 8, taking it seriously. Everything paid off. I can finally be proud of what I’ve accomplished. But, I’m not done. I still have a long way to go. I have goals that I want to get accomplished.”

Downie chose the Beacons over offers from University of San Diego, Morehead State, and Stetson.

Valparaiso’s coaching staff saw that Downie posted about receiving his third D-I offer, from Stetson, on X, and requested he take an official visit to their campus, though the Beacons hadn’t yet offered him a scholarship.

It didn’t take long for Downie to like what he saw: a new, welcoming coaching staff and friendly team, the potential for a balanced attack that utilizes its receivers, an opportunity to contribute as a freshman, and impressive facilities.

Oh, and cool jerseys.

“I like their jersey a lot,” he said. “That definitely helps.”

Moreover, the school offered majors that Downie is interested in: business and business management. He’s an aspiring coach, but if that doesn’t pan out, he wants to be involves with sports in some capacity.On the field, Downie was all business.

He was named Offensive Player of the Year in the PCAL’s Mission North Division for the fourth-place Mustangs (5-5, 3-3).

Downie made 87 catches for a state leading 1,620 yards and 14 touchdowns. In his career, he had 193 catches for 3,332 yards and 32 TDs — all three are Santa Cruz County records.

“It’s great to see his hard work being rewarded,” said Spencer Ferrari-Wood, MVC’s head coach. “Now, he can take some time to breathe and relax, and enjoy his senior year. I’m sure he was probably tired of being asked where he was going to play next year.”

After first hearing from Valpo, Downie said the Beacons were No. 3 on his list. His visit changed his perspective quickly.

“It just felt like home,” he said.

Only one thing went wrong on his visit. Downie, a starting guard on the Mustangs’ basketball team, played some hoops with the Beacons on his trip, but he didn’t bring his basketball shoes. Instead, he played in his new Nike Air Force 1 Low Drew League shoes.

“I didn’t want to crease them,” said Downie, chuckling.

Otherwise, he came prepared, clothing-wise. He wore a long sleeve shirt and two jackets — at the same time — survive the frigid, 25-degree temperature.

“I was OK,” he said.

One of Downie’s first goals is to see plenty of action as a freshman. He was told he’ll be used as a slot and outside receiver. He’d also like to contribute on kickoff and punt return.

The impact player hopes to continue to command attention from opposing defenses.

“I want to take this as I can,” he said, of his career.

Ferrari-Wood believes Downie has the skills and work ethic to find success.

“He’s definitely a twitchy runner,” his coach said. “He crafty and savvy as a route runner, and he’s an athlete. His speed ability is one the of the best part of his game. He was at his best when his best was needed.”

Valpo went 4-7 last season under coach Landon Fox, 2-5 in the Pioneer Football League.

Fox’s contract expired at the end of the season and wasn’t renewed. Andy Waddle was named the program’s new head coach on Dec. 9.

Downie, who had starting quarterback Caron Tyler serve as his host, believes the Beacons are going to find success under Waddle.

“The second I stepped on campus, I felt the good vibes, from everyone,” Downie said. “It’s a new staff, and everyone has really bought in.”