By Jessica Bodiford

Special to The Luverne Journal

On Thursday, March 14, students and families gathered together as three Highland Home School (HHS) student-athletes signed on the dotted line solidifying the next step in living their dreams of playing college football. Brice Mckenzie, son of Shannon and Leann Mckenzie, committed to play with Jackson State University in Jacksonville. Lane Duett, son of Dale and Belinda Duett, sealed the deal with the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in King Point, New York and Cooper Ingram, son of Mike and Tony Ingram, signed to play with Huntingdon College in Montgomery. 

According to HHS head football coach Will Pouncey, all three boys worked very hard to get to where they are and they will be missed. 

“I am extremely proud of all three of our guys and the legacy they are leaving behind at Highland Home,” Pouncey said. “We look forward to their opportunities to play at the next level and continue to develop as football players and successful men.”

Mckenzie expressed his appreciation for the journey that led him to this pivotal juncture. As he prepares to embark on his collegiate football career, his words echoed with humility and appreciation for the unwavering support of his community, coaches, and most importantly, his family.

“First I would like to thank God for giving me this opportunity allowing me to have a good high school career and to be able to take it to college,” Mckenzie said. “Thanks to all the people here for supporting me. My coaches, family and my mom and dad.”

The day was full of heartfelt gratitude from another young athlete who stands at the cusp of a promising future. With sincerity Duett expressed appreciation for the journey that led him to this pivotal juncture.

“I just want to thank everyone who helped me get to this point; teachers, coaches, and even the ones who can’t be here today like Coach Best who was always a good influence and role model when we were younger,” Duett said. “I also want to thank my parents who pushed me to this point.”

As Ingram prepares to take his talents to the collegiate level at Huntington College, he pauses to extend his sincerest thanks for the opportunities afforded to him and the foundation laid by those who have believed in him along the way.

“Big shoutout to my coaches, teammates, and especially my parents, the ones who put me in the position I am in today,” Ingram said. “Thank you to Huntington College for giving me this opportunity to play at the next level.”

Highland Home principal, Gary Coleman, felt very proud of the achievements of all three boys and wished them the best of luck on their journey.

“I would like to thank all three boys for what you have done,” Coleman said. “I have enjoyed over the last 10 years watching you all on the football field, basketball court, and baseball field. I wish you the best of luck”