Head football coach, Marvin Sedberry Jr. began the ceremony by commending his athletes for their commitment both on the field and in the classroom.
“Some people do not realize what it takes to secure a college scholarship,” said Sedberry Jr. “Your education, by far is the most important piece. A recruiter will always ask to see grades and a transcript first before asking about athletic ability.”
Following a presentation of their season awards and accomplishments, Griffin, Johnson, and Morris each took turns signing their letters of intent.
Malik Griffin played on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball for the Terrell Tigers as a lineman. He was named First Team All-District Offensive Lineman and First Team All-District Defensive End by coaches across the 5A district and voted Outstanding Offensive Lineman and Outstanding Defensive Lineman by his teammates.
“The Wranglers are getting a player that excelled on both sides of the ball,” said Sedberry Jr. “Malik rarely left the field this season and never complained.”
Griffin’s stats include 15 solo tackles, 18 assisted tackles, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 sack, and 2 tackles for losses.
JaQuavious Morris was a starter on both sides of the ball for the Terrell Tigers, but made a name for himself on defense. Morris was nationally recognized by USA Today as a nominee for Mid-Season All-USA Defensive Player of the Year. Morris accounted for 142 total tackles, 253 total yards, and one touchdown. He was named First Team All-District Fullback and First Team All-District Linebacker.
“JaQuavious is a tremendous athlete, but more importantly, a tremendous teammate,” shared Sedberry Jr.
Khalid Johnson, who Seberry Jr. recognized as a “special player,” was a tight end and linebacker for the Terrell Tigers. He was recognized by the Dallas Morning News Sports Day as the Week 8 High School Hero after a performance that included 11 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 1 interception that was returned 85 yards for a touchdown, and a fumble recovery returned 67 yards for a touchdown.
“That game is just one example of how Khalid can take over a game,” said Sedberry Jr.
Throughout the season, Johnson acquired 89 solo tackles, 59 assisted tackles, 3 sacks, 1 interception, 3 fumble recoveries, 4 defensive touchdowns, 303 receiving yards, 3 offensive touchdowns, and 45 passing yards. He was named First Team All-District Tight End, First Team All-District Linebacker, and voted Most Valuable Player by his teammates.
Following the ceremony, Sedberry Jr. shared what his first National Signing Day as the Terrell Tiger head coach meant to his football team.
“For me, it is a very special moment; it is my first year here and you never know what to expect, “said Sedberry Jr. “For these guys to be able to accomplish these things, learn my system, and then get offers from college programs is a big deal to our program.”
He continued by stating that he hopes to see players from all of TISD’s athletic programs reach the same height of success.
“My goal for Terrell High School is to fill this room up on National Signing Day, not just with football players, but with players from all different sports.”
Congratulations to these three outstanding student athletes!