It’s national signing day, Wednesday February 4th, 2015, and four Eleanor Roosevelt high school varsity football players have signed to college teams.
A quad of immaculate players decided where they would be playing football for the next four years. Quinlen Dean, Isaiah Prince, Louie Akuffo, and Mike Mofor were the stars of the school this morning. Dean signed to the University of New Hampshire, Prince to the Ohio State University, Akuffo to Gallaudet University, and Mofor to St. Anselm College. The four mentioned that it was a stressful decision, however they said they’re glad that the wait is over.
Defensive player of the year (USAToday) Quinlen Dean is leaving Roosevelt in May to become a Wildcat at The University of New Hampshire. After having such a great season and numerous offers, Dean made his final decision. “This is a true blessing, I really want to thank God. Shout out to the Raiders team, and to Coach Green,” said Quinlen. He said he expects nothing but improvement in the upcoming season.
Dean is not the only Raider going to New Hampshire this fall, Mike Mofor will be joining him in the state, but at St. Anselm College. He was very confident in his choice. “I want to thank the coaches that recruited me, my mom, and God. All I have to do now is keep grinding. I chose St. Anselm because it is a very respected school, and it’s very connected. The football program there is rising, its nice up there. I had a few options but they definitely stood out to me in the end of the process. I like their coach and all he was about. But again, I wouldn’t be here without my mother,” said Mofor. He also added, “I’m happy for my teamates, I knew it was coming…we got a lot more coming, we have a talented class. I’m just happy to see everyone succeed.”
Staying local, Louie Akuffo will be attending Gallaudet University this fall. He was very grateful to be where he is now. “I’d just like to thank God and my teammates. Without them I wouldn’t be here, they gave me that extra push I needed. I didn’t think I’d make it, but I am truly blessed,” said Akuffo.
Last but not least, four star prospect Isaiah Prince is going to The Ohio State University this fall. Many were waiting on his decision between OSU, UMD, and UA. Before choosing, he thanked God, his teammates, his family, and his coaching staff.
“What I liked about Ohio State was they are so family oriented, they actually have a bond up there. That’s something that I like, I have that down here at Roosevelt. But it was still a tough decision,” said Prince. “I made great relationships with coaches, but I had to make the best decision for myself. Me and my dad have been arguing about making the right choice, it’s stressful. I did let the schools know my decision before my announcement, some were pretty disappointed. A lot of them were pressuring me, but Ohio wasn’t. They told me they’d wait for me even after signing day, that showed me they cared. Not only for me but for my family, and when people show care for your family that means something. Maryland was pretty close I think, but Ohio state was just a better fit.”
Coach Green, the Football coach here at ERHS said he was honored to have coached these young men. “Anytime we get kids scholarships its great.” He added, “We want more, the main thing is getting successful and graduating players.”