Four Lions sign with NCAA Division II universities
February 4, 2010

By DAVID CLAYBOURN
Herald-Banner Staff

GREENVILLE -- Wednesday was a big day for the Greenville Lions, who had four football players sign letters of intent with NCAA Division II universities.

Alton Dennis and Dominique Mitchell signed with Southern Arkansas of the Gulf South Conference and Colton Reed and Manon Steward inked with Emporia State (Kan.) of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association.

“I think they all got a chance to do good,” said Lions coach Jim Phillips. “It’s the next level. It’s going to be harder, faster and bigger.”

Dennis, a 6-0, 180-pounder, is been recruited as a wide receiver though he played quarterback the past two seasons for the Lions. The speedy Dennis rushed for 2,148 yards and 19 touchdowns on 324 carries during his three-year varsity career, including a team-high 1,190 yards and 10 touchdowns this past season. Dennis was 98-of-230 passing in his career for 1,465 yards, 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions.

Dennis led the Lion receivers in 2007 with 32 catches for 283 yards and three touchdowns.

Dennis was a second-team selection on the All-District 10-4A team after helping the 6-4 Lions to their first winning record since 2003.

The 6-0, 170-pound Mitchell, who is being recruited as a defensive back, was a second-team all-district selection for the Lions on defense.

Phillips called both Dennis and Mitchell “good” athletes.

The 6-3, 300-pound Reed, recruited as an offensive lineman, was a second-team all-district on offense for the Lions this past season.

“Colton’s a good athlete for a big guy,” said the Lions’ coach.

Steward was a first-team all-district selection for the Lions at defensive end. Phillips indicated that the 6-3, 240-pound Steward has a lot of potential. Steward recorded 65 tackles last season, including 12 for losses and four quarterback sacks.

“It’s up to them now,” said Phillips. “It’s out of my hands.”

Southern Arkansas announced the signing of 30 players, including 26 high school recruits. Nineteen of those prospects are Texans.

“We’re really excited about the guys we signed,” said Southern Arkansas coach Bill Keopple. “They’re all quality players that will address our needs.”

Emporia State announced the signing of 17 high school recruits plus have seven new transfers. Of those 24 prospective players, 16 are linemen.

“We’re very happy with our class this year,” said Emporia State coach Garin Higgins. “A lot of these players are excited about coming to Emporia State. With the progress we are making with our weight room expansion, they are able to see that there is a commitment to getting better at Emporia State.”

Phillips said he has three more prospects with the Lions that he’s trying to help get signed.