It’s been a few years since Warren County High School had a triple college signing, since 1981 to be exact, as seniors K’Rojhn Calbert (UT Vols), Hunter Hawkins (Tennessee Tech) and Mitchell Stembridge (Cumberland University) put pen to paper Wednesday to play football and pursue their education at the college of their choice.
“This is a great day for the high school,” said WCHS executive principal Jimmy Walker. “It’s a great group and they’re getting excellent educations pursuing quality programs.”
After signing with their chosen schools, culminating a process of visits, and tough decisions, the student-athletes were excited about their upcoming experiences. They all expressed thankfulness to be able to pursue an education while playing a sport they’ve been involved with locally, most recently suiting up in the blue and red for the Pioneer football squad. All also plan on pursuing an education in the sports field from sports medicine to physical education.
“Very exciting, great for our school, great for our sports program,” said football head coach Tom Moore. “It’s always good to have students advance their careers and get their educations paid for.”
Moore is planning a trip Friday to visit Warren County Middle School and speak with students there about the football sports program in Warren County and the opportunities they have available. He is taking one of the signees as backup.
“I’m taking K’Rojhn with me,” Moore said. “Everyone knows him and he’s an excellent speaker. He should be able to help let the students know what is possible here in Warren County.”
Calbert has been in the limelight often this year as the time came to decide if he would pick UT or one of the other baker’s dozen of schools that had shown interest. Calbert made a verbal commitment in November prior to his signing on National Signing Day on Wednesday when colleges all around the country make it into a media event.
More than one of Calbert’s family and friends agreed with Moore about Calbert’s public speaking ability. Add his Aunt Glenda Smith, his mom Rebecca Calbert, his grandmother Willie Martin and you have a quartet all on hand to support the event.
Hawkins’ parents, James and Leisha Brooks, as well as Stembridge’s parents, Melissa and Alvin Stembridge, plus a host of others showed up to share the moment with the students.
“We’re excited. We’re very excited. It’s a great opportunity and we’re looking forward to him going up there and showing what he’s got,” said James Brooks, a former Pioneer football standout himself.
“Opportunity of a lifetime for him,” said Melissa Stembridge.