Three Henderson High School student-athletes signed Wednesday morning to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level, marking a milestone that reflects years of hard work.
Griffin Antunes signed to compete in collegiate bass fishing at the University of Montevallo, while Varian Williams and Lemarion Coleman signed to continue their football careers at Kilgore College.
HHS Fishing Coach Mike Dillinger said Antunes’ signing represents the result of sustained effort and a willingness to do more than what was required.
“The University of Montevallo is a top-tier school with one of the best fishing programs in the nation,” Dillinger said. “Being part of a program like that opens a lot of doors, and it’s an opportunity he’s earned.”
Dillinger said Antunes consistently went beyond the minimum, competing in weeknight tournaments and additional events to continue sharpening his skills.
“He’s done all the extra work,” Dillinger said. “That commitment has really shown, and this is where it’s led.”
Dillinger added that Antunes’ success offers a clear example for younger anglers coming up through the program.
“Our younger kids can look at him and see what’s possible,” Dillinger said. “They know he sat in those same meetings and put in that same work.”
Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Ricky Meeks said the signings of Williams and Coleman speak to both their character and their persistence.
“We’re proud of these young men,” Meeks said. “They’ve put in the time, and they’ve earned the chance to take this next step.”
Meeks said Kilgore College provides an important bridge for both student-athletes as they continue their development.
“They’ll be close to home, but they’ll also be in a position to keep growing,” Meeks said. “It’ll be great to watch them play and see what they do with the opportunity in front of them.”
The signings underscore continued momentum across Henderson High School athletics, as student-athletes turn preparation into success.
#Montevallo #KilgoreCollege #TraditionOfExcellence