Idaho signee Malek dies after year-plus cancer battle

Jace Malek, an inspiration to the Idaho Vandals football program and sports fans region-wide since he was diagnosed with cancer just over a year ago, died Sunday.

Malek, a graduate of West Valley High in Spokane, signed a national letter of intent to play football for the Vandals in February 2015 — the day after he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Idaho football coach Paul Petrino and the Vandals honored the scholarship.

Malek, also a standout wrestler at West Valley, attended the University of Idaho in the fall of 2015 and was a student assistant coach for the Vandals, attending practices and games when he could. He was one of the team captains for Idaho’s season opener vs. Ohio, and later in the season received a game ball after Idaho defeated Louisiana-Monroe. Malek had his leg amputated last summer.

“I am thankful Jace Malek was part of our team,” Petrino said in a statement released by the school. “I know everyone feels the same. Jace made me a better father, better coach and a better person. I am grateful and honored that he was part of my life.

“We love him and will miss him.”