United States Marine Steven Rhodes is a walk-on freshman for Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) who almost could not play because of pick-up football, the Daily News Journal reported.

Rhodes, 24, was initially denied eligibility by the NCAA because the recreational league in which he played during his service had uniforms and officials and, therefore, was deemed an "organized league."

"Coach (Rick Stockstill) was smiling real big. I was ecstatic when he told me. I'm going to play now," said Rhodes. "This has all been crazy, but I feel like I got a whole new life now. Thank the Lord, I'm going to play football this year."

The NCAA ruled him eligible to play, effective immediately.

Rhodes, a Marine Sergeant who finished recently his active enlistment, was initially in danger of losing two years of eligibility due to the recreational league for military personnel only in which he played in 2012.

"Man, it was like intramurals for us," Rhodes said of the league he played in. "There were guys out there anywhere from 18 to 40-something years old. The games were spread out. We once went six weeks between games."

Rhodes appealed the NCAA's original ruling immediately and the process, which was supposed to take weeks, concluded after 24 hours. Rhodes's story received widespread media coverage and outpouring of support from MTSU fans and others.

"Throughout this process, NCAA staff worked closely with Middle Tennessee State University, and we appreciate the school's partnership," said Kevin Lennon, NCAA vice president of academic and membership affairs, in a statement. "As a part of the ongoing review of NCAA rules, our members will examine the organized competition rules, especially as it impacts those returning from military service. We thank Steven for his service to our country and wish him the best as he begins college."

MTSU president Sidney McPhee congratulated Rhodes with a hug on the sideline of practice after the news broke.

"This is exciting news for Steven and Middle Tennessee State University," McPhee said. "We express our gratitude to the NCAA for reviewing this situation and granting Steven the ability to play this fall. We are hopeful that the NCAA will look at the bylaws regarding all individuals who serve in the military before becoming a student-athlete."

Rhodes does not have cable television yet, because he wants to keep his bills low. He also does not think he would have time anyway.

"And I'm still not getting cable," Rhodes said. "I want to wait until the start of the month so the bill isn't so big. And I don't have time to watch TV. I've got work to do. I am going to play football this season."