By John Goolsby, For the Tribune
IRONDALE – Miles head coach Sam Shade picked up a talented defensive back this morning.
Senior Jacob Mahand signed his National Letter of Intent to play for the Golden Bears at a signing ceremony at Shades Valley.
Mahand, 6’2, 170 lbs, had four interceptions last year and helped lead the Mounties to their first winning season in five years.
“It has always been a dream of mine to play collegiate football,” said Mahand. “To have that dream come true is truly an unreal feeling.”
Jacob’s father, a long-time high school football coach in Alabama, retired and joined Rueben Nelson’s staff last year as a defensive coach. “His strength is his willingness to learn,” said Chris Mahand. “He is coachable, has a positive attitude, is respectful, but most of all has a strong work ethic.”
Signing day is an exciting time for not just the player. “We are thankful, grateful, and blessed beyond measure,” said Jacob’s mom, Angel Mahand. “Dreams do come true!”
“I’m so proud of Jacob for putting in the work,” Mahand said. “To see it now pay off is what it’s all about.”
As Mahand prepares to take his game across town, he is committed to doing the things that got him to the collegiate level. “Stay humble and hustle hard,” he said.
Mahand also had an offer from Bethune-Cookman.