Watts signs to the University of West Alabama

St. Aloysius football player Mason Watts has officially signed to play at the University of West Alabama (UWA).

Having excelled on the offensive line for the Flashes, Watts made his commitment official on Thursday. His signing was witnessed by his family, friends, teammates, and classmates who were present.

Asheton Gray, Alonzo Stevens, Trey Welch, Kris Watts, Kordell Watts, Padre Gray Jr, Pearl Harris, Mason Watts and Kimberley Watts: Photo by Keith Phillips

Watts started playing football in the sixth grade at the Vicksburg YMCA. He continued his football journey at Vicksburg Junior High, where he contributed to the Gators’ 10-5 record over two years. He played for VHS as a freshman before having to sit out as a sophomore due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Watts was soon under the leadership of St. Al’s head coach Bubba Nettles, who trusted him to control the line.

“He made me feel welcome and he made sure that I knew I had to earn a spot and nothing was going to be given,” Watts said.

As a junior in 2021, Watts found a new home with the Flashes, where he became their lead blocker.

“I think I showed the state who I really was as an athlete and I really felt like I dominated,” Watts said.

Watts’ best skills were in his run-blocking and his ability to move big defenders, which greatly contributed to the Flashes’ success in earning over 1,500 rushing yards and paved the way for the running backs.

A year later, as a senior, Watts helped lead St. Al. to a 12-0 win over Park Place, which ended a long season-opener losing streak.

“Breaking that streak was very special and we gave it our all to pull out that win,” Watts said.

Midway through his final year, Watts suffered a partial ACL tear that ended his season.

“Mentally, I was hurt, knowing that I put in so much work in the off-season to change my body, and for it all to be over was a tough pill to swallow,” Watts said.

Though Watts received offers from four other colleges, he decided that UWA was the perfect fit to advance his football career. With his brother, Kordell Watts, having just completed his final season at UWA, the Watts name already carried weight.

“They made me feel like I was right at home and they didn’t sugar coat anything and plus it’s close to home, “ Watts said. 

Although Watts worked hard to reach this point, he expressed gratitude towards those who stood by him.

“I want to thank my mom and my brothers because they all pushed me the most and I will forever love them for that,” Watts said.

After graduation, Watts plans to head to Livingston, Alabama and wear the red & white with his new team.

“The conference that I’ll be in is nicknamed the SEC of Division II so the competition is going to be stiff but I look forward to it,” Watts added.