On Wednesday, Dec. 3, Manual hosted a senior signing ceremony for two senior athletes who have both committed to play collegiate football.
The ceremony began at 1:35 p.m. with athletic director David Zuberer welcoming the teammates, coaches, family and friends of the players. Zuberer discussed the traditions of signing ceremonies at Manual before introducing Principal Michael Newman who spoke about his admiration for the seniors as well as the people supporting them.
Newman discussed how proud he was of them and the growth they had experienced while at Manual while thanking the people in attendance who made the athletes’ success possible.
“I’ve enjoyed watching you all grow and develop here, not only as an athlete, but also as a student. I really want to say thank you all for just representing what duPont Manual High School is,” Newman said.
Following Newman’s speech, Zuberer introduced the first senior signing, David Pellman (12, HSU). He has committed to play football for Eastern Kentucky University.
“Things like this don’t happen by accident, and I appreciate everyone who helped me get to this point,” Pellman said.
He went on to speak about how his interests and experiences differed from many that were common among football players and how it allowed him to grow as a person.
“Being different pushed me to grow in ways the game alone couldn’t. It taught me that there is more than one way to be an athlete, more than one way to lead and more than one way to succeed,” Pellman said.
After Pellman had signed and given his speech, Zuberer brought forward the second senior who’d be signing, Corey Warner (12, HSU). He has committed to play football for the University of Massachusetts.
In his speech, Warner gave thanks to those who’ve allowed him to give him this opportunity in life, praising the sacrifices made by his family.
“To my family, thank you for always believing in me and sacrificing and pushing me to be the best on and off the field,” Warner said.
Warner ended his speech by setting goals for his future at the collegiate level.
“I’m ready to take the next step, represent my family and make my community proud. With that being said, I’m 100% committed to the University of Massachusetts,” Warner said.
After both athletes had spoken, Zuberer gave his final thoughts by thanking those in the athletes’ life and congratulating them on signing.
“These young men have many great things ahead of them, and we are going to definitely miss them being here,” Zuberer said.
Zuberer then opened the floor to allow the audience to take photographs and celebrate with the seniors.
