By By BRIAN HAINES, Sports Reporter
The success of the 2007 Plymouth football team didn’t end with its NCHSAA 1-A state championship. On Feb. 6, NCAA football’s national signing day, the Vikings announced six players would be furthering their football career as well as their education at in-state colleges.
William Hunt (OT), Dasheen Perry (LB) and Lynell Woods (LB) each earned a scholarship to play at Fayettville State, while Blake Bryant (OT) Reginald James (DT) and Angelo Sharpless (WR) will receive scholarships to attend and play for Elizabeth City State University. Both schools are members of the Div. II Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).
Having six players from one class receive scholarships was the most in Plymouth coach Robert Cody’s tenure, and the coach said he was thrilled to see his players get a chance to continue their careers and schooling.
With the signing of Sharpless, possibly the most recruited player on Plymouth, the ECSU Vikings not only strengthen their football team, but their basketball team as well.
Cody said the ability to play both sports, as well as its location, was a key factor in Sharpless’ decision to attend ECSU.
Cody feels the other two former Vikings will also make great future Vikings.
The Fayettville State Broncos bolstered their linebacking corps by signing WDN Defensive Player of the Year Perry and his WDN All-Area teammate Woods. The two linebackers dominated area football last season and hope the trend will continue at the next level.
The Broncos will also benefit greatly from its signing of Hunt. The Plymouth captain was not only an exceptional athlete, but one of the team’s most vocal leaders and a great presence in the locker room.
Though all six players will have to pay their dues in practice before they see significant minutes for their respective colleges, there is a good chance Perry, Sharpless and Hunt will get to contribute sooner than later.
Sharpless has Div. I talent and could be a factor as soon as he learns the play book, while Perry and Hunt should get at least some spot duty next year.
While six players have signed with colleges already, the Plymouth Vikings should see that number increase as their two biggest playmakers are still being recruited.
Washington Daily News All-Area running backs and 1,500 yard rushers Tobias Claggon and Andre Mitchell still have not committed to a program yet.
While their stats speak for themselves, a few programs might be discouraged to hand them a scholarship because of their size (each stand at roughly five-foot-five).
Cody feels whatever school recruits them will get a steal.
The Saint Augustine Falcons (Div. II) is said to have the most interest in the two running backs.