Central Bobcat Football Seniors Choose Their Colleges

Last night, the lives of four Central High School seniors changed forever as they signed their National Letter of Intent to four respected colleges.

“We are really excited about these young men and what they’ve accomplished.” Coach Brent Davis said proudly. “This group of guys we have known throughout their career, it’s been an honor to coach them, nights like this are what makes it all worthwhile to coach.”

Nick Lambert has been working hard since his freshman days. He has proven himself a valuable player who leads his peers by example, the coach said. Lambert has played as both wide receiver and inside receiver for the Bobcats.  With many different options available, Lambert's decision required faith.

“I had three schools to choose from, Angelo State, Southwestern, and Hardin-Simmons.” Lambert said. “When it came down to it I just looked at my faith, and where God wanted me to go. I prayed about it, and God just showed me that ASU is where I want to be. From a financial stand point, from an athletic standpoint, everything that I want to accomplish in my life is attainable at ASU. I feel like I can be very productive there and I am very blessed to be here."

Eli “Cinco” Howard trained as a quarterback in his junior high and freshman years. Howard ultimately took the role of defensive end for the Bobcats. Described as a “freak of a football player”, this young man’s determination and love of the game could take him all the way to Sunday night football, his coach said. For now, college ball at The University of North Texas is in his near future.

“I had other opportunities on the table, but North Texas stood out by far,” Howard explained. “They were my first offer, they are the reason I have this opportunity right now. They just seem more like family than anything else; they stuck with me the whole way. Whenever I was noncommittal and then later decided to recommit, they were understanding and treated me the best."

Luke West wanted to play safety before he was even a freshman. His persistence and hard work made him the obvious stand out choice when that position became available. West is known for naturally assuming the leadership role in any situation. This quality must have made it an easier decision when choosing the U.S. Military Academy at West Point as his college pick.

“It was kind of a random deal. I decided to go on an official visit. I had heard about the history and opportunity that West Point offers. I fell in love with it, the school the campus. So, when I came home me and my parents talked, and I feel like its home for me,” West said. West Point is a Division 1 college. West said he has ambitions for a career in the U.S. Army as an officer, possibly going to Ranger School when he gets the chance to apply.

Braden Hucks transferred from Wall High School and started as a running back for Central High School two years ago. His goal was to become the quarterback. With an incredible passion for football, he was able to accomplish that in record time. He has his art down to a science when it comes to the gridiron, coaches said. It’s no surprise that Hucks would be looking for something challenging at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“Going on my official visit there, I wasn’t really sure I was going to commit that weekend. The whole military side of it scared me honestly. After getting there and talking with the coaches and players that have been there and been through it all, I realized it was something that I could definitely do. I’m a very tough, steadfast person. I’m very hardworking and dedicated. I’ve always been somebody who just likes to be different and do things a little above and beyond. That’s why I decided that the Air Force Academy works for me," he said.  The Air Force Academy is also a Division 1 college.

Landon Sawyer and Connor Frank were also honored as young athletes who have also made their intentions known to play college ball. Sawyer will be a preferred walk-on at Texas Tech. Frank signed with Mary Hardin-Baylor.

Braden's father Terry Hucks spoke for all of the signees' parents when he thanked the coaching staff for their unconditional commitment to the football team and their four sons in particular. “You have become a part of each of our families.” He said.

The coaching staff expressed what incredible leaders each of the young men that sat on the signing table are and will be in the future. “We are sad to see them graduate,” Coach Davis joked bittersweet. “All of these colleges are really getting some productive, motivated, dedicated kids.”