SEFFNER, Fla. — Day one of the early signing period is the first opportunity for high school prospects to lock-up scholarships and formally sign national letters of intent.
“Once I put pen to paper I knew it was over with,” Desmond Watson said.
A weight was lifted off the shoulders of four student-athletes at Armwood High School.
“Dang, I’m really doing this,” Chris Davis said. “It’s actually happening.”
“Signing that paper was the best part of the day,” Noah Biglow said. “No, I take that back. Putting on that hat was the best part of the day.”
Biglow, a cornerback, signed with the University of Pittsburgh, linebacker Chris Davis is going to Georgia State, quarterback Cam’ron Ransom signed with Georgia Southern, and defensive tackle Watson is staying close to home at the University of Florida.
“Florida is leading the SEC in tackles for loss and sacks,” Watson said. “I believe in Coach Mullen and Coach Turner to develop me to go to the next level. I knew this is where I wanted to go.”
The COVID-19 pandemic made no exceptions for these signing day recruits. That meant no on-campus visits and it could be a rude awakening for Biglow, a Pitt-signee.
“I’ve never seen snow a day in my life, but I am ready for it,” he said.
The student-athletes had to take virtual visits to their respective campuses.
“When I got the offer, Coronavirus was in,” David said. “I wasn’t able to visit like that. I had been talking to coaches since March, April.”
They’ll be leaving the comforts of home for the first time - but happy to have a strong support system with their families, no matter which school they cheer for.
“Everybody is a big supporter,” Watson said. “Some of them are Florida State fans, but they had to switch it up today.”
“Dad is a die-hard Miami fan,” Biglow said. “My cousin is a Florida State fan. They’re going to see Pitt kick some butt.”
