Red Bay senior Jalen Vinson signed a football scholarship with the University of Louisiana-Monroe Friday.

Vinson, a 6-foot-2, 180-pound quarterback and defensive back, was one of the team leaders on the Tiger squad that went 9-2 this past season.

“It’s been my dream since I was a kid to make it to the next level,” said Vinson. “For it to finally be happening is truly a blessing.”

Vinson carried the ball 90 times for 660 years and also passed for 839 yards. He had 10 rushing touchdowns and 11 passing touchdowns.

On defense, Vinson had 54 tackles and two interception returns for touchdowns.

Vinson had 52 career touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

Vinson’s coach Michael Jackson said he has no doubt he will do well at the collegiate level.
“Jalen’s work ethic and character made him the player he is today,” said Jackson. “He has all the tools to be a successful college football player.”

Vinson said Jackson has instilled in him what it takes to be successful.

“Coach Jackson helped develop me as a player from junior varsity as an eighth grader,” said Vinson. “He really pushed me and helped me develop the work ethic I will need to have to be successful in college.”

Vinson plans to major in business administration.