Three senior football players from Southeast High School, Myreon Lowe, Caleb Steele, and LaDavion Johnson, have committed to continuing their athletic careers at colleges in Iowa. On March 1, 2023, they signed letters of intent to join William Penn University and Clarke University, marking a significant step in their sports journey that will take them over 1,300 miles from home.
Commitments to Iowa Colleges
Lowe and Steele both signed with William Penn University, located in the rural town of Oskaloosa. The university, named after a Creek Indian princess, represents a new chapter for both players. “It’s going to be a new adventure,” said Lowe, who plays as a linebacker. “See new things. Meet new people. Ultimately help me become a better player, better person.”
In contrast, Johnson will take his talents to Clarke University in Dubuque, where he recently experienced snow for the first time. “It’s going to be a big change, but I’m excited,” he said. Both players are ready to face the challenges that come with adapting to a colder climate, especially during the winter months from November to March.
Lowe and Steele’s bond extends beyond football; they have been friends since freshman year. Steele emphasized the importance of their friendship in their decision-making process. “I could’ve gone anywhere, but once I got the opportunity to play ball with my brother, I gotta take that,” he explained. This support system will help them tackle the inevitable homesickness they may face.
Support from Coaches and Families
Their Head Coach, Curt Bradley, has played a crucial role in guiding their decisions, especially regarding financial commitments. “When it’s not a D-1 full scholarship, there’s lots to contend with – academic money, football money,” he noted. Bradley emphasized the importance of making informed choices to avoid financial constraints in the future.
“With 100% attendance in offseason workouts and regular practices, they’ve been raised in great families,” Bradley added, expressing confidence in their potential success. “These guys are going to make it,” he stated with a smile.
Interestingly, the trio will also become opponents next season, as both teams compete in the Heart of America Athletic Conference. Johnson remarked on the excitement of facing his friends in competition, saying, “I’ll be in touch with them, see how they’re doing. But when that game comes? Gonna be a different story.”
Lowe acknowledged the competitive nature of their friendship, stating, “He’s going to try to run me over.”
Alongside Lowe, Steele, and Johnson, other athletes from the Manatee School District also celebrated their commitments on National Signing Day. Notable signees included Jaeda Dean, who will play volleyball at State College of Florida, and Liam Fernandez, who committed to SUNY Maritime College for football.
As the athletes embark on this new journey, their commitment to their sports and the support from their communities will undoubtedly play an essential role in their future success.
For more updates on local athletes and their journeys, contact Vin Mannix at [email protected] or call 941-962-5944.
