By Morgan Bryce
Editor
Seven Smiths Station High School student-athletes representing the Panthers’ football, soccer and volleyball programs inked collegiate scholarships last week as a part of the “National Signing Day” event held at schools across the country.
Male Sports Athletic Director Brian Nelson introduced the group, citing their overall toughness and positive representation of the school’s brand throughout their athletic careers.
“This group has been through a lot. They’ve lost friends, they’ve lost loved ones and (have) been through acts of natural disaster … but have (persevered) through it all,” Nelson said.
Following is a list of the signees and the schools that they have committed to:
QB Ashford (Football) – ASA Miami (Florida) CC
Cam Burnett (Soccer) – Faulkner University
Caleb Coleman (Football) – Hutchinson Community College (Kansas)
Reese Ponder (Soccer) – Judson College
Shelby Watkins (Soccer) – University of West Alabama
Asiah Wiggins (Volleyball) – Southern Union State Community College and
Christian Williams (Football) – Huntingdon College.
Coaches from several athletic programs spoke, talking about the joys of coaching their student-athletes and imparted their wisdom to them.
“Your direction in life can take you to a lot of different places. Don’t ever give up on one thing, try a lot of things when you’re young and find your area and what you excel in,” said Panthers’ football Coach Mike Glisson.
“We look forward to you (Wiggins) representing us at the next level. We’re so proud of you and wish you the best of luck as you transition into this next phase of life,” said Volleyball Coach Jenna Walker.
Girls Soccer Coach Dennis Jones and his players Ponder and Watkins shared emotional moments while he congratulated the two girls on their accomplishments.
“You (two) have been key members of our program and will go down as some of the best to ever play at this school,” Jones said.
For more information about Smiths Station athletics, visit www.lee.k12.al.us.