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| From Left: Jordan McAfee (UConn), Duval Paul (Georgetown), Theo Zidor (Central Connecticut) and Carlins Platel (Assumption) prepare to sign Letters of Intent to their respective colleges |
EVERETT, Mass. – Sitting behind the MIAA Division 1 State Championship that they fought so hard to earn this past fall, four of Everett’s most distinguished scholar-athletes signed official letters of intent to their respective colleges on National Signing Day.
Quarterback Jordan McAfee (University of Connecticut), defensive lineman Duval Paul (Georgetown), wide receiver Theo Zidor (Central Connecticut) and cornerback Carlins Platel (Assumption College) beamed as they fulfilled their lifelong dreams by accepting offers to play football at the collegiate level.
“It’s a great day for Everett High and I’m very proud of all four gentlemen,” said Everett football and basketball head coach John DiBiaso. “These guys were part of the foundation that helped us get back to and win the Super Bowl. It’s great to have these guys serve as role models for younger kids and great examples of the school itself.”
Everett high principal Erick Naumann led the proceedings and pointed out how each of the honored athletes have made great strides in the classroom, as all four students are earning A’s and B’s across the board this quarter.
Yet it wasn’t always that way for some of these athletes, as Duval Paul pointed out in his commitment speech.
“First of all I want to thank the coaches and teachers for putting up with me for four years,” Paul said, eliciting laughter from the spectators. “No matter where I go to college, I will never find people that are as close to me as my coaches here. They took me in as their son.”
All four players echoed Paul’s appreciation towards the coaching staff that led them to a state championship in their final football season, while McAfee credited his offensive line, laughing that he’d “Be in a hospital bed somewhere” if not for them.
Many other members of the state champion Crimson Tide were in attendance, including star running back Marvens Fedna, who reportedly plans to commit to the University of Rhode Island in the near future.
Each commit was honored with a montage about the school that they will attend next year, spliced with highlights from their recent championship run.
Platel’s video showcased his team-high seven interceptions, Zidor’s highlights included a 35-yard touchdown reception in the second half of the state championship game and Duval Paul’s film featured opposing quarterbacks cringing as he wrangled them down for some of his many sacks on the season.
McAfee’s tribute concluded the proceedings and displayed some of the best receivers at the University of Connecticut that he’ll hope to target beginning in practices this upcoming summer.
“I’ve come a long way here at Everett,” reflected McAfee. “I’ve experienced tough times and good times, but the tough times made me better and I can’t wait to get down to [UConn] and get started.”
The players all expressed their appreciation of the tight-knit community in Everett and promised to represent the Crimson Tide at the next level.
“This season was really big for us as seniors, going out with a championship and I’m glad I’ll get to play at the next level,” said Platel. “If you come from Everett, you’re a hard worker and a winner. I’m thankful to have been a part of this community and this school.”
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