Five high school athletes pose Wednesday at Boca Ciega High School before relatives and school officials at a ceremonial signing of their athletic scholarships. From left, Bradley Watson of St. Petersburg, won a baseball scholarship to Alice Lloyd College in Pippa Passes, Ky.; Tully Allen of Gulfport, Saint Leo University, Saint Leo, Fl., baseball; Jake Moore of St. Petersburg, Coker College, Hartsville, S.C., wrestling; Taylor Garbiso of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg College, volleyball; Will Sharpe of St. Petersburg, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, Ark., wrestling.
Relatives and school officials gathered at Boca Ciega High School Wednesday, April 15, to celebrate five student athletes who will be heading to college next fall with athletic scholarships.
The five appeared before several dozen beaming supporters in a mock ceremony to sign scholarship offers that were already a done deal. Two sported hats and t-shirts with the emblem of their future alma mater.
Assistant Principal Deb Fabrizio told the gathering the students were part of a lucky few who get a chance to parlay their love of sports into a real option. “These folks are going to college to play a game,” she said. “It’s an unbelievable opportunity.”
Jake Moore of St. Petersburg said the students’ scholarships were also positive for the high school.
“It shows students from the school are doing good things and going places,” he said.
Taylor Garbiso of St. Petersburg said the scholarships also reflect on “all the staff that helped us get here.”
Tully Allen of Gulfport said he had always wanted to play baseball at the college level. “Now it’s happening and I’m happy,” he said.