Vicksburg’s Dennis Battle Signs to Southwest Mississippi CC

Vicksburg, Miss.-Vicksburg High School star linebacker Dennis Battle Jr. has signed with Southwest Mississippi Community College. Battle officially signed on Friday during a ceremony that was held at Vicksburg High School.

“When I went for the visit it felt like home and some of their coaches are from Vicksburg and I know they can get me to the next level,” Battle said. 

Battle’s football journey began when he was 8 years old playing for the Warren County Ravens. After winning a little league championship, Battle knew that he had a bright future in football as he instantly became a standout player on the varsity team.

In 2022 as a sophomore, Battle earned a spot on the varsity team and he testified that one of his favorite memories was when he laid a hit on a running running for a 10-yard loss against Germantown in that year’s Red Carpet Bowl. 

“It was 3rd and long and I remembered that after it happened I told myself that I have to do that every play,” he said.

Battle ended his sophomore year with 96 tackles, three interceptions, two pass deflections, and three sacks. He also made the All-County and All-District football teams while also helping VHS reach the North State Championship Game for the first time in 20 years.

Just a year later in 2023, Battle led VHS to another winning season under Head Coach Christopher Lacey as he was quickly known as a go-getter at the linebacker position. He racked up 75 tackles, five sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles that year.

Injuries interrupted his final year in 2024 but he easily proved that he was a standout athlete in his high school career.

“My entire high school career was ups and downs but I can say that I’ve met some great people and gained some great brothers,” Battle said. “We’re all brothers so they know that I’ll always be there for them.”

Although his time on the Gator football field is up, Battle thanked his supporters for the years they stuck with him and cheered for him.

“I want to thank my coaches, friends, and family but most of all I want to thank my mom because even though she has passed away, it was her motivation that kept me going.”