Ronald Peterkin said he committed to Georgia State because he likes the area, he likes the coaches and he likes the school. Plus, his parents won’t have to drive far to watch him play.

Peterkin, a 6-1, 175-pound safety at Stephenson High School, is the Panthers’ first commit for the 2014 class.

He said he may not have committed as quickly if Georgia State weren’t moving up to the Sun Belt Conference, but he would still have been interested.

Peterkin said he met with the coaches twice before committing. He said the coaching staff made him feel at home when he visited the practice facility.

He said Boston College, Tennessee and Iowa State had also shown interest.

“It’s a relief,” he said. “I’m glad to get it over with. It’s stressful.”

Four defensive backs on Georgia State will use up their eligibility after the 2013 season. Signing cornerbacks and safeties are priorities for coach Trent Miles.