Laurel head basketball coach Sherri Cooley loves coaching. What is most rewarding for her as a coach is seeing her players sign to the next level, not only because of play on the hardwood but because they get an education and scholarship. Today in front of Cooley, other staff, family, and friends, Laurel seniors Beverly Tillman and India Singleton inked papers to further their athletic careers at JUCO programs.
“I’m very proud. It is always a big deal when a young person can go and play at the next level while getting their education paid for by way of a scholarship. At the end of the day that is the most important thing, getting an education. If they can do that playing the sport that they love it is even greater. It is such a blessing to be able to send girls off to college. This is one of my favorite times of the year to see these young ladies sign to go to the next level and play college basketball,” said Cooley.
Cooley spoke about both ladies after the signing as Tillman signed with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Singleton signed with East Central Community College.
‘Beverly is a talented player and a true point guard. All of the JUCO schools were trying to sign her because it is rare to find a true point guard nowadays. Right now she is dealing with injuries but they still wanted to sign her and get her ready for next season. India who signed with East Central is a special girl. She is academically proficient and a coachable player. She can flat out play. East Central is going to have a good one with her as well as Gulf Coast with Beverly.”
Tillman was excited to finally sign on the dotted line with Mississippi Gulf Coast.
“It felt great to be able to sign today. It isn’t just an accomplishment to me, but my family also. I’m the first one to go to the college level, and I want to thank my family, friends, and most importantly my coaches who pushed me to get this far. Mississippi Gulf Coast was there from day one, and that’s the team I felt that I wanted to play with,” said Tillman.
Singleton was also excited to sign with East Central and glad to make it official.
“Today was a great day to sign because I have been wanting to make my family proud. I’m proud of myself and all the hard work that I have put in. It is worth it. East Central is close to home and I feel like it is a good environment all around with the gym and campus. I think the style they play is a good fit for me,” explained Singleton.
Congratulations to both girls as they continue their careers!
