By SHERRY DIGMON
News Publisher
Four young men sat on the stage at Escambia County High School Wednesday morning, February 7. It was a big day for them – National Signing Day, traditionally the first day a high school senior can sign a National Letter of Intent with a college.
Three signed to play football, one basketball – Lorenzo Arnold Jr., Exavion “Buddy” Bradley, Elijah Thomas, and Stephen Williams.
ECHS Principal Layton Knight welcomed everyone and introduced Pastor Catadro North, Empowerment Tabernacle, who began the program with prayer, asking God’s blessings over these athletes.
Athletic Director Vincent Harris introduced the coaching staff. Teachers Talia Wright and Stephanie Buitron brought words of encouragement.
“As you enter the next season of your life, don’t ever forget … the challenges,” Wright said. “Stay committed. Eliminate the negative. Accentuate the positive.”
Looking at the young men on stage, Buitron said, “This is Blue Devil excellence. They’ve put in the work. They’ve put in the hard work. It’s going to be how bad you want it. There are plenty of people here to help you … This will not be the last you hear of these young men on this stage.”
Speaking to the underclassmen in the audience, Knight said, “The time is now to work on your grades. If you wait until your senior year, that’s too late.”
Coaches introduced the student athletes.
“I don’t think anyone in the state can guard him,” Knight said of Stephen Williams who announced he’s signing to play basketball with Coastal Alabama Community College.
In his remarks, Williams thanked God, his coaches, the staff and “most of all, my Mama.”
Coach Raymond Robinson introduced Exavion “Buddy” Bradley and talked about his willingness to put in the work even after hours. Bradley thanked God, his coaches and his mom. Bradley said he’s going to play football for the University of West Alabama.
Coach Devon Robinson called Elijah Thomas “a great all-around kid. He did whatever I asked him to do.” Thomas thanked God, his coaches and his family. He signed to play football with Miles College.
Coach Maurice Bradley said of Lorenzo Arnold, “The first day, I knew we had a guy who could be someone one day. He set his mind and his goals and worked toward that … He’ll play in the NFL one day.” Arnold thanked God, his coaches, teachers and family. Arnold committed to play football at East Mississippi Community College.