BERLIN- Two of Stephen Decatur’s outstanding student-athletes this week signed national letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers next year.
Senior Zach Adams, a four-year starter on Decatur’s varsity baseball team this week signed a letter of intent to attend and play baseball next year at Division I Mount St. Mary’s. Senior Dryden Brous, a Decatur varsity lacrosse standout and face-off specialist, also signed a letter of intent this week for Division II Lynn University in south Florida.
Decatur Vice Principal and Athletic Administrator Ryan Cowder said Monday’s signing ceremony was a proud moment for Adams and Brous and the entire Seahawk community.
“As Athletic Administrator, I deal with a lot of issues, but this is one of my most proud moments each year,” he said. “Two of our brightest and best student-athletes are moving on to the next level and we couldn’t be happier for them.”
Cowder thanked the players’ coaches at Decatur, and all of the coaches who helped them along the way through various levels of youth sports. He also thanked the parents for their dedication, weekend trips to camps and tournaments, packing lunches and buying equipment. Finally, Cowder thanked Brous and Adams themselves.
“Thank you Dryden and Zach for representing Stephen Decatur,” he said. “No one did this for you. You guys did this with the amount of hard work you put in. It’s not going to be easy, but I know you’ll both be successful at the next level. Stephen Decatur is very proud.”
Decatur varsity baseball coach Rich Ferro said Adams started as a freshman at the all-important catcher position and has been behind the plate for the last three years with another spring season to go. Ferro said Adams suffered an arm injury that threatened to derail his career, but praised his backstop for battling back.
“He had a tough arm injury and we were concerned about his future, but he worked hard to get back into shape and I think we’ll see even a better baseball player. I think his best baseball is still before him and he is ready to accept the challenge academically and athletically.”
Decatur varsity lacrosse coach Scott Lathroum praised Brous for his tenacity and leadership qualities.
“Dryden is a fierce competitor and he is dedicated to the game and dedicated to his team,” he said. “His practice ethics, his winning attitude and his leadership on and off the field are special and we know what he’s going to deliver every game. He is athletic, quick and strong and he’s also a member of the National Honor Society, so he’s good kid and a good student.”
Lathroum said Brous delivered all of the qualities he wants and expects from his players.
“He’s the kind of lacrosse player you want on your team,” he said. “I couldn’t wish something like this on a better kid. He’s going to be a great representative for his team, his school and his family.”