DAPHNE, Ala., — Three Daphne high student athletes were recognized on Feb. 1 for their accomplishments and making post-secondary plans to play sports at the next level. Surrounded by family, friends, coaches, and the Daphne High administration, the athletes signed to officially accept athletic scholarships offered to them by the following colleges/universities. Congratulations to these student athletes and their families.

• LT Ikner - Hutchinson Community College

LT Ikner thanked everyone that had supported him throughout his life and encouraged his younger teammates to, “Get your grades right. Listen to what the coaches and teachers are telling you so that you have choices and opportunities.”

He also thanked the DHS coaching staff.

“Being a Trojan was the best decision I ever made,” he said.

Ikner is looking forward to making a difference for Hutchinson as soon as he steps on campus. He vows to work hard during the offseason when he arrives later this year.

Coach Kenny King on Ikner, “LT is a great young man. He has the size and the ability to dominate. And hopefully, everything he learned here at Daphne will give him the tools for his success.”

(2016-17 Statistics) 22 Solo tackles, 40 assisted tackles, five tackles for a loss, seven quarterback hurries, one sack, one pass deflection, one interception, one fumble recovery.

• Killian Love - Missouri Baptist University

Killian Love gave a special dedication to his mother, “Who was always there for me, never left my side when I was sick, and took me to every football practice growing up.” He also gave a special shout out to his younger brother, Rylan, stating that, “It was an honor to line up next to you and go to war on the football field.”

Love is excited about playing for Missouri Baptist and ready to help the Spartans line and make holes for his new running backs.

Coach King on Love, “Killian was our rock on the line and I know that he has the capability to be that and much more for Missouri Baptist.

(2016-17 Statistics) 11 game starter on the offensive line. Offense had 1,551 yards rushing in 2016. Total offense of 3,479 yards for the season.

• Brian Mitchell – Jackson State University

Brian Mitchell teared up when speaking about his mother.

“I love her so much,” he said. He went on to get a few laughs when he proclaimed that it was his mother’s love of football before he even knew what the sport was that got him interested in the game. He also thanked his father, his pastor, his family, and his coaches.

Mitchell couldn’t be happier to be a Tiger and is eager to get to work and willing to play both sides of the ball again if needed.

Coach King on Brian, “Brian is an unselfish, talented athlete who played both sides of the ball for us this year and excelled. Once he gets with the JSU coaches and weight room staff, the sky is the limit for him.”

(2016-17 Statistics) Defense: 12 Solo tackles, 12 assisted tackles, nine QB Hurries, 10 sacks. Offense: eight receptions for 120 yards with four touchdowns.