Lyman Ward's Minor is Empire State Bound

By Dusty Harper

(This article is reprinted with permission from Alexander City Outlook)

Lyman Ward's Justin Minor got quite the surprise when he woke up on Wednesday morning.

The senior quarterback for the Rangers learned that Erie Community College in Orchard Park, N.Y., had offered him a full scholarship to play football, and it was an offer Minor couldn't refuse.

"I didn't even know about it until today," Minor said. "My heart dropped. It's like a dream come true for me. I've been wanting to play football my whole life."

Minor, an AISA all-star selection this season, completed 61 of 102 passes for 914 yards, 10 touchdowns and just three interceptions this past year. He ran 71 times for 751 yards and 10 more touchdowns, as well.

Head coach Sheldon Ward said Minor should excel at the next level.

"He's a very coachable kid who has multiple talents," said Ward, who just completed his first year at the helm of the Rangers. "When you're down by two in the fourth quarter, he's the guy you want to have the ball. He's got a cannon, too. He will definitely be an asset to them."

Minor had been recruited by a few junior colleges in the Southeast and several NAIA schools as an athlete. But, Erie head coach Dennis Green told Minor he wants to give him a shot at quarterback.

"Coach Green said he was extremely excited after seeing my film and that he loved my highlights," Minor said. "I want to play quarterback, but I'll play wide receiver or running back or be a return specialist if that's what they want. I just want to go to a school that will accept me for who I am."

Minor, who just finished a basketball season in which he averaged more than 24 points per game, said he thinks his ability to be effective with his arm and his legs is what makes him stand out on the field.

Minor is from Starkville, Miss., and played three years at Starkville High School before coming to Lyman Ward Military Academy. He will study mathematics.

Luckily for Minor, he won't be going to the Big Apple alone. Two players from nearby Chambers Academy, Daniel McKeldrick and Ryan Smith, also signed with Erie. The three plan to live together in Orchard Park.

Ward said it had been a long time since any Ranger received a scholarship.

"Maybe the 80's was the last time," Ward said. "This is a really big deal for Justin and his family and for our community. We're proud of him."

See the originial article at http://www.alexcityoutlook.com