An enthusiastic crowd comprised of students, teachers, coaches and family members gathered Friday afternoon at the Center for Education and Performing Arts of Pell City to witness five Pell City High School football players officially accept offers to play college football.

“2 p.m. hit and the school erupted,” said Casey Engelbrecht, assistant to the director at CEPA. “Everyone was rushing to get to the theater as soon as class was out.”

Each player — Chris Lynch, Tyler Estell, Kinsman Trammell, Austin Carlton and Kent Foster — individually went to the podium to announce their colleges of choice. Keith Etheredge, head football coach at Pell City High School, made introductions of the players.

“It’s special seeing your guys get to move on and play at schools that they chose and that have chosen them,” Etheredge said. “It’s hard watching them go, but it’s exciting knowing they’re going on to sign scholarships and getting to play at the next level.”

It was clear that their time together meant a lot to the players as well.

“I’m just blessed to play with all the guys—I love them; they’re like my brothers,” said Austin Carlton, inside linebacker, prior to announcing his commitment to Huntingdon College. “I’d just like to thank God for blessing me with this opportunity to be able to play football —the game I love the most.”

Kinsman Trammell, defensive end, next proclaimed his intent to attend Arizona Western College in Yuma, Arizona, but not before providing a touching anecdote about his grandfather.

“My grandfather told me that there are only two things in life that matter: the Lord in your heart and who you marry,” said Trammell with a grin, as the room responded with appreciative laughter and cheers. “I’m taking that to the grave!”

Etheredge then introduced defensive tackle Tyler Estell, who was “a big part of (the team’s) success, and did a fantastic job this year.” Estell will be going to Point University in West Point, Georgia.

“I’m excited to be attending Alabama Prep Sports Academy,” said running back Chris Lynch before breaking out into a huge smile, almost as if on-cue right before the crowd began applauding in approval of his statement.

Finally, Kent Foster, offensive lineman, announced he will attend Dodge City Community College in Dodge City, Kansas.

“I’m excited about the opportunity. I haven’t been out of the state too many times or too far away, so it’s going to be a pretty big change for me,” admitted Foster. “I’m excited to get up there and see what it’s all about … My dream has always been to play at the highest level possible. I want to play in the SEC. This was the opportunity that presented itself where one day I can achieve that goal.”

After the players signed their letters of intent, photographs were taken with family members, then coaches before being dismissed.

“I thought it was awesome,” Etheredge said. “You sit there and you listen to them talk, and you know how much it means to them—and you know how much they mean to us.”