Several area high school football players decided on where they will play their college years on Wednesday. The last day of the National Signing period came to a close.
Over at the American Theatre in Hampton, the curtain officially closing on the careers of six Phoebus Phantoms. They were apart of back to back Class 3 state titles in the school's history. Among them wide receiver/cornerback Jordan Bass who is now a Pittsburgh Panther.
Teammates Mychal McMullin (James Madison), Nolan James along with TyReon Taylor (Norfolk State), Jayden Earley (Virginia Union) and Jaylen Hayes (Christopher Newport) all felt plenty goes into a moment like today for students/athletes.
"Yes I'm ready to sign. I'm ready to work, but you just remember all the things you're about to leave behind", says Bass. "That's the emotional part of it".
James, who missed the state title game due to an injury says, "Everybody don't get the opportunity. You're apart of that few get to play after high school and it's something special".
Bass probably put it best when he felt while one part of his life comes to a close, another one is beginning.
"Just leaving behind a lot and moving to a new city as a teenager as I am turning 18 soon. It's going to be mentally draining", he says. "Just having to figure out my way, but I'll get through it though".
In Williamsburg, Lafayette's Jaylen Pretlow was all set to go to the Naval Academy, but changed course and is now headed to Old Dominion University. In his final two seasons with the Rams, he scored 60 touchdowns. 21 of them rushing, 33 receiving and 6 on returns.
The Warwick Raiders historic season paid off for four seniors. Davion Corpening and Richard Martin will be heading to Norfolk State while Isaiah Wallace and Imonjai Whitaker embark on their journey to Virginia Union.
"Its always been a dream", says Martin. "You always had that thought in the back of your head. It just feels good".