Thomas signs with ULM while Edwards is headed to LSUA

Three athletes with local ties sign on to continue playing career
This past couple of weeks Evangeline Parish was fortunate to have three players with ties to the parish sign on with state colleges to extend their career.
Tralon Thomas, standout linebacker from Ville Platte High, fulfilled his dream on Wednesday by inking with the University of Louisiana-Monroe. Thomas, a first team all-district and all-parish performer was understandably ecstatic to be able to bring his talents to the Warhawks.
“Now that I have committed, it is a relief,” stated Thomas. “Ever since I was a kid I have wanted to play college football. I knew that UL-M was the place for me when I visited. The coaches were always checking on me and made feel like they were going to take care of me. I really believe that I will get the best education there, which is really important to me.”
LSU-A got a versatile big man for their basketball program next year, as Mamou High center Russell Edwards put his name on the dotted line last week. Russell is an all-district performer as well as being the reigning parish MVP.
“I had a chance to go to other schools, but I was really impressed with the coaches at LSU-A,” said Edwards. “Besides, it is very close to home and I have family in Alexandria. I know I will really have to work hard and stay humble if I want to be successful on the college level.”
“Russell is a great addition to our recruiting class. He fits the mold of what we are looking for in terms of character, size and athletic ability. We are happy to coach him on and off the floor and help him reach his full potential. He will be a special player for us,” commented LSU-A head basketball coach Larry Cordaro.
Finally, outstanding Elizabeth High baseball player Ty Morgan will head up the road to Alexandria to begin his post high school career at Louisiana College. Morgan, is the son of Pine Prairie native Keith Morgan and his wife Sheila. His uncle and head baseball coach, Rhon, is also a Pine Prairie native.
Morgan was the MVP of the state championship game in two years ago and has been named to the all-state team the past two seasons.
“It will be exciting to be close to home so that my parents and family will be able to come and watch me play,” said Morgan. “I just want to go out and do the best I can and contribute in any way that the coaches see fit.”