Gators signed collegiate scholarships on Wednesday

Four football players from Vicksburg High School made a significant decision on Wednesday to sign collegiate scholarships and continue their football careers on the next level.

Tyler Henderson, Koury Vample, Keegan Ware, and Demarcus Johnson are all taking a big leap forward in their football journeys.

Henderson:

Henderson, named Co-Athlete of the Year by VDN, has chosen Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College as his future college. He expressed his belief that this school will propel him to the next level and make him feel at home.

Tyler Henderson family: Photo by Richard Miller

Despite being heavily recruited by the University of Southern Mississippi, Henderson ultimately chose MGCCC over other options like Alcorn, Jones College, and East Central. As a star wide receiver, he was named the
District Athlete of the Year. His impressive stats include 32 receptions, 852 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns, 2 kick-off returns for 105 yards, one kick-off return touchdown, three interceptions, and a total of 982 All-
Purpose Yards. Henderson also played
in the Bernard Blackwell All-Star Game.

He expressed gratitude to his parents,
family, friends, and coaches for their
unwavering support.

“I just want to thank them all for everything,” he said.

Vample:

Vample, a talented defensive back, signed with Hinds Community College after receiving extensive attention from the college. He acknowledged the hard work put into recruiting him and felt deeply appreciated by the team. Vample earned recognition as the
District Defensive Back of the Year and
attributes his success to Coach Christopher Lacey and Coach Paul Wilson. One of his standout moments was his impressive performanceagainst Warren Central, where he
prevented any catches.

Koury Vample family: Photo by Richard Miller

Ware:

Ware, a defensive back, caught the attention of Holmes Community College during one of his track practices and subsequently signed with them. He felt an instant connection with the college and knew it was where he was most wanted. His high school career included winning the district championship as a junior
and impressive performances shutting
down numerous wide receivers.

Keegan Ware and family: Photo by Richard Miller

Ware expressed his gratitude to his teammates, coaches, family, and friends for contributing to his success.

Johnson:

Johnson, a 2-time District MVP, will also be attending Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. He recognized a great opportunity with their excellent program and seized it.

Demarcus Johnson and family: Photo by Richard Miller

Johnson, a formidable defensive lineman who achieved 100 tackles in 2023, was one of Mississippi’s most underrated players. He showcased his skills in the Bernard Blackwell All-Star Game.

Despite offers from various other Mississippi Junior Colleges and Alcorn State University, he ultimately chose MGCCC.

“I’m going down there to make a statement and let everyone know that I’m here,” he said.

All four athletes have been guided by
the exceptional coaching of
Christopher Lacey.