Two Eagles Commit To Brewton-Parker

The Montgomery County High School athletic program celebrated a milestone on Monday, May 18, as two Eagles signed their letters of intent to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level. Both Luke Burns and Zaid Vazquez will be packing their bags for nearby Brewton-Parker Christian University, with Burns slated for the baseball diamond and Vazquez heading to the soccer pitch.

Vazquez

Vazquez’s journey to the college ranks was built on persistence and grit. MCHS Head Soccer Coach Jake Hall praised his player's relentless drive. 'Zaid never gave up,' Hall said. 'He worked, he kept his attitude up, he earned his chance. He is just going to keep going and going, and he will continue to grow in his time at Brewton- Parker.'

For Vazquez, the signing represents the culmination of a long road and the start of a new challenge. 'I am nervous, I am excited, just happy to get this chance to play in college,' Vazquez stated. 'I think that Brewton-Parker will help me prove myself. It is a smaller school, but I think that I can learn and improve there. It fits me. I have to thank God, my parents and family, my teammates, and all of my coaches for helping me get here today.'

Burns

On the baseball side, Burns heads to Brewton-Parker after leaving a lasting mark on the MCHS program. Relying on a heavy arm and steadfast leadership, Burns was the cornerstone of the Eagles' pitching staff. MCHS Head Baseball Coach Chase Young noted the void Burns will leave behind on the mound.

'Luke was a workhorse for us,' Young said. 'He had 216 strikeouts over his career, and was just the guy we knew could give us a chance to win. He was a leader on our team, and has made an impact on our program. He is one that we will miss, but we are so happy for him to get the opportunity.'

Like his classmate, Burns was quick to deflect the credit to his faith and his support system. 'Give God all the praise for today,' Burns stated. 'Every time I step to that mound before a game I kneel down and say a prayer to Him, and He is the reason I am here. I also want to thank my father for getting out there everyday and giving me his time to help make me better. I also want to thank my other coaches, especially Coach Young for all he has given me as well, along with all of my teammates. Brewton-Parker is just a good fit for me, it fits my beliefs, and I think that I can make a difference there.'

The joint signing day is a testament to the work both young men put in during their time in an Eagles uniform, and they will now look to carry that same work ethic just down the road as Barons.

Zaid Vazquez (center) signs his letter of intent to play soccer for Brewton-Parker Christian University, while his mother and coaches watch on.Photo by Mike Branch