Last Friday, three Morgan County soccer players put pen to paper as they signed to play soccer at the college level.
Both Blake Downs and Chase Link signed to play at Truett-McConnell College, and Teddy Young is headed to Toccoa Falls College.
Morgan County head coach Aaron Paul is proud of Downs, Link, and Young, who have all played for him the past four years.
“Those three are extremely hard-working players on the field, off the field, and in the classroom,” Paul told the Lake Oconee News. “They all love the game of soccer and had a goal in mind and achieved it. They are exactly the type of student-athlete Morgan County and our soccer program want to have and produce. They will make anything they do in life better because of their work ethic.”
They are part of one of the program’s most accomplished senior classes. The Class of 2025 achieved a record of 30-4 in region play and secured four consecutive region titles. Additionally, they have reached the Sweet 16 twice and made it to the Elite Eight, aiming for further success this year.
“That’s pretty incredible,” Paul added.
Downs, Link, and Young are all strong in their faith and chose their schools because God led them there. It’s a bonus that all three are staying close to home so their families can see them play.
Young described Toccoa Falls College as the “perfect fit” for him, “I chose TFC mainly because it is a small Christian college. I didn’t want to go anywhere that had too big a campus and was far from home,” Young said. “When I found out about TFC and researched it, and then actually went there, it was perfect for me. Another reason I chose TFC was that I really want to build my faith and relationship with God while playing soccer, and TFC aligns with that.”
Downs and Link have played together for a long time and are happy to continue playing at the college level.
“I am super pumped to have not only a best bud but a fellow soccer player to play with for four more years,” Link said. “I’m excited to see how much he improves and how much I do as we further our journey with TMU.”
Downs agreed with Link’s sentiment.
“I am very excited to be able to play with a guy that I knew for a long time for another four years,” Downs said. “I am excited for what God has in plan for us at college and am excited to see how we both progress as humans and out on the soccer field.”
All three dream of winning the state championship and wish to end their careers as Dogs on top.