On Jan. 9, Hernando High School senior Ben Barnette signed with East Central Community Collage, where he will make an outstanding preformance on their O-line.

East Central Community College, is located in Decatur, Mississippi. East central is known for being a college rich in affordability and quality, with very high economic mobility for graduates, ranking highly in Mississippi academics’ performance. It also offers strong technical/career programs, and lastly, it boasts a very supportive and caring campus culture, also known as “The EC Way.”

We asked Barnette why he chose to commit to East Central, and this was his response.

“I chose to commit there because I felt the coaches really poured into me and my recruitment. They look at the whole person, and they also lead spiritually in the locker rooms and the meeting rooms.

Barnette also told us he got an offer from Mississippi Gulf Coast and chose not to take it.

Barnette was asked what he was going to major in.

“Secondary education, and that is to become a football coach.”

We also interviewed head coach McCann about what it’s been like coaching Barnette.

“Number one, and for most, he’s a great kid, great young man now. But he’s worked hard. He’s helped install that work ethic. He’s gotten better at his goals; it’s been pretty cool watching him go after his goals every day and be consistent.”

McCann was also asked what aspects he thinks Barnette will be adding to his new team.

“He will be one of those big guys up front and bring a steady work ethic. He will improve every year and get stronger. He will probably be the anchor of their O-line for the next two-years.”