Steward and Coney commit to play college football

Seniors Jerrod Steward and Schuyler Coney signed letters of intent to play college football on National Signing Day, February 7. Steward will make the move to Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, and Coney heads up to St. Andrews University in North Carolina.

These young men have played a part in making history for the Tigers on the football field. This group of seniors won eleven playoff games over their four years, including two trips to the state championship in 2022 and 2023. That is the most of any class in school history.

Steward played linebacker and fullback and was named Region 2A Division I Defensive Player of the Year. He also earned a spot on the Atlanta Journal-Constitution All-State list. Opposing players knew to watch out for that big number eight, and his stats prove it. He had 145 tackles, one interception, and caused three fumbles. Steward says he is thankful for his time as a Tiger. “I love the memories that have been made with my fellow players and coaches. They are really more than just a team to me.” He is planning to major in business management at GMC.

Coney played wide receiver and cornerback. He was named 2nd Team All-Region Defense, and fans saw number 20 constantly moving on the field. He had 34 tackles, two intercep-tions, seven pass breakups, and caused one fumble. On the offensive side, he had four recep-tions for 114 yards and two touchdowns this season. As for why he chose St. Andrews, Co-ney says, “I appreciate the opportunity they gave me, and I am looking forward to exploring other places.”

Head Coach Scott Roberts is proud of these young men and shares, “We are excited for the opportunities Jerrod and Schuyler have earned to continue their academic and athletic ca-reers at the collegiate level. They have done a great job of representing this school, this pro-gram, and this community throughout their careers here.”

Steward and Coney were joined in the media center by a host of family and Tiger supporters to celebrate this important milestone. Present for Steward were his grandmothers, Monica Boynton and Tamara Steward, his father, Jerrod Steward, Sr., his great-grandmother, Martha Steward, and many extended family members. Supporting Coney were his mother, Marnicia Freeman; his brother, Damien Freeman; his sisters, Ke’Myshia and Kimora Freeman; and sev-eral aunts, uncles, and cousins. Assistant Coaches David Ray, Ashley Hooks, Chase Gid-dens, Morgan Jersey, Dwight Smith, Pippin Davis, and fellow football players were present to show their support. Also in attendance were SHS Principal Brandon Andrews, Assistant Principal Lindsey Sconyers, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Gray Mendieta, SHS facul-ty members, and members of the community.