Crooksville trio leaning on experience entering college athletics

ASFN Admin

Administrator
Administrator
Moderator
Supporting Member
Joined
May 8, 2002
Posts
518,649
Reaction score
47
CROOKSVILLE — Being an inspiration was one of the motivating factors behind Crooksville senior Hunter Browning signing his letter of intent.

He was one of three Ceramics to be recognized for that achievement on May 6, as Browning will wrestle for NCAA Division II Wheeling (West Virginia) University.

Bo White signed to play golf for NCAA Division II Ohio Dominican and Konlan McIntyre will play basketball for Division III Muskingum University to round out the trio.

Crooksville is the smallest school in the Muskingum Valley League, but has a history of sending student-athletes to the next level. This group showed what's possible to the next generation, remarked Browning, a district runner-up this year.

"I've always wanted to wrestle in college so this means a lot to me and my family," noted Browning, who also qualified for the state meet. "I've worked at this, and I want to do well in college. This is a chance for me to inspire others."

You must be registered for see images attach


Seeing others earn chances to compete in college always gave McIntyre hope. He's excited to be that person for the current youth in the school and community.

McIntyre was voted Second Team All-Ohio in Division VI after averaging around 24 points per game.

"When I was a kid, I looked up to the older kids who signed and went on to play in college," he said. "I wanted to do that since I started playing. It's a great feeling to set an example and show others what's possible."

More: Area athletes battle through the rain drops to put up strong performances

More: Several area softball teams draw top seeds for tournament action

White, a multi-time district qualifier, is continuing a family tradition. He also credited his faith and dedication in earning a chance to keep golfing. This is an opportunity he won't take for granted.

"Even being at a small school like ours doesn't mean you can't play in college," White remarked. "You can do this if you put your mind and effort into it. You have to believe in yourself and work hard, too. The Lord sent us down this path and given us a great opportunity to show others what they can do."

Following their passions​


All three Ceramics have competed in athletics since their youth.

You must be registered for see images attach


For White, he follows his older brothers, Blake, who played at Coker University, and Brock, who played for Malone, to the college ranks. White, who will major in data analytics, wouldn't be in this position without the guidance of his older siblings.

"My brothers taught me the game so to follow in their footsteps is special," he said. "We played every day during the summer, and they showed me how to play the right way. That experience has helped me accomplish so much.

"ODU is the right size campus, and I liked the coaches and the team," he added. "They play on several courses around Columbus so that's a nice bonus."

Wrestling is part of Browning's life. He has been competing on the mat since he was five or six years old so following his passion was important. He is motivated by the adversity of his senior season, but is also ready to compete after taking part in several spring tournaments.

"I battled injuries throughout my senior season, and I already hit some tournaments to get back on the mat," Browning said. "I love the sport, and it's something I've been doing nearly my whole life. The MVL has provided some great competition, and I'm prepared for what I will face next."

The draw to join an up-and-coming program kept McIntyre, who will major in Human Resources, close to home. He has played with or against several players on the current roster, including former Tri-Valley standout Terrell Darden. He's looking forward to an opportunity to compete and contribute.

"I know a lot of the guys out there, and they had one of their best seasons in awhile. The coaches always stayed in touch and were really encouraging," he noted. "I've been playing since third grade, and I wanted to stay around the game. This gives me that chance to keep competing."

[email protected]; X: @brandonhannahs

This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: Crooksville trio ready to shine at college level


Continue reading...
 
Top