Last week Springville’s Jeremy Richardson announced that he would sign with the Auburn Tigers.

Richardson, the No. 1 receiver in the state according to recruiting publications, made his decision official after a sit down with his grandfather, Sammy Newsome, who is a die-hard Auburn Tiger fan. Newsome has been at UAB hospital fighting throat cancer and Richardson has been by his side as he watches his grandfather fight for his life.

Richardson said that he wanted to make the switch from purple and gold to orange and blue to show his grandfather how much he cared for him being there as he grew up.

His story truly epitomizes what can be accomplished despite hardship. Richardson’s mother died when he was 11 years old and he lost his grandmother two years later.

After a touchdown he will often bow his head and hold his hand to the sky. Springville coach Keith Maple has said that when he does that, “You can tell he’s thinking about his mother.”

“I’m excited for him and his family,” Maple said. “I think it’s real big for him. He and his granddad sat down together when he was making his decision and I think that’s great for them. As much as he’s been through in the past three or four years, it’s great that he’s able to take such a big step.”

Maple said that while Richardson’s post-high school future looks bright, he is concerned with making the best out of the upcoming season.

“I’m really happy for him,” Maple said. “For us here, though, we’re going to be focusing on his next school year in the classroom and on the field.”