Warren Central’s Adria Burrell signs with University of West Alabama

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Warren Central High School track and field standout Adria Burrell has signed an athletic scholarship with the University of West Alabama. She celebrated the milestone with an official signing ceremony Sunday, surrounded by friends and family.

“I chose UWA because I think it was the best fit for me, and I like the program, so I know I made the right decision,” Burrell said.

Introduced to track at age 7 by her brother, Burrell quickly made a name for herself. By the end of her junior year, she ended Warren Central’s six-year state title drought by winning the 200-meter dash.

“Ending that drought was amazing, and I strived for my team to come out on top,” she said.

The state title brought pressure to repeat the following season, but Burrell responded by capturing another championship—this time in the 100-meter dash.

“It was a goal that I was reaching for, so I’m glad I didn’t let the pressure get to me,” she said.

Before the start of her senior season, Burrell began drawing attention from college programs. She received offers from Grambling State University, Hinds Community College, Alcorn State University and Coahoma Community College before committing to UWA earlier this month.

Burrell competed under head coach Heather Casey during her high school career.

“Running under Coach Casey was great, and I feel like I gave the WC track team a different look—but there’s a lot more talent on that track team,” she said.

Burrell closed out her high school career as a school record holder in three events: the 100 meters (11.93), 200 meters (24.96) and 400 meters (58.5).

She credited her first coach, Clarence Maxey, and also thanked Coach Tommy Curtis, Coach Michael Fields, her parents, and “most of all, God.”

At West Alabama, Burrell will compete in the 100, 200 and 400.

She is the daughter of Adrian and Alexandria Burrell and plans to major in kinesiology.