Mitchell County football players sign college letters of intent

CAMILLA — Two Mitchell County High School football players signed their letters of intent to play at the collegiate level, marking significant milestones in their athletic careers.

Senior Parnell Yates signed with Georgia Tech, an achievement that was once impossible. Yates, who has only been playing football for three years, said the sport remains new to him.

“I just started playing the game about three years ago. So, football is still kind of new to me. That’s the reason why you never see me break down or get heated. But that’s because I’m still learning, if you understand. So, just every situation I go through, I don’t take it as a harsh situation. I just take it, I learn with it, and then I learn. Then I run with it,” Yates said.

Georgia connections drive college choices

Yates said his Georgia roots influenced his decision to showcase his skills at the next level.

“Georgia has the best football, and specifically South Georgia have the best football. So just to go up north and showcase my skills with a team full of players all around the world, I mean, it don’t get no better than that,” he said.

He chose Georgia Tech for both its athletic program and academic reputation.

“Why Georgia Tech? I mean, why not? I mean, Georgia Tech is one of the best programs in the country. And also, on top of that, they have a strong history in academics, and I believe I can be a great fit,” Yates said.

Longtime Eagle heads to West Georgia

Senior Jonathan Isom, who has led the Mitchell County squad for years, signed his letter of intent to join West Georgia. Isom said the signing represents a lifelong dream.

“To be honest, I feel good with playing, signing, going to college. I’ve been dreaming my whole life. I ain’t know how I can be here, but it’s been a long journey for me. To be at Mitchell County Eagle means a lot. My family, they’ve been here their whole life. I’ve been here my whole life. Graduated from here. Well, I’m going to graduate from here. And I just love Mitchell County. Go Eagles!” Isom said.

Isom said West Georgia’s culture and community drew him to the program.

“West Georgia has a special place in my heart, like the culture, like the people out there, like the culture style, just love the community up there,” he said.

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