Wlaf1450TOP PHOTO: Gavin Newman and teammates celebrate Newman’s special day.
JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – Gavin Newman’s drive and dedication coupled with great coaching and positive influence have prepared him to play college football, and Maryville College is the beneficiary. Newman signed to play for the Scots on Thursday morning at Campbell High.
Since 6th grade, Newman has been coached and encouraged by some of the best coaches in the region who played college ball themselves; Brent Peel and Mike Miller at Jacksboro Middle School and Justin and Matt Price along with Chris Honeycutt and Landon Reece at Campbell County High School. Peel even played on national championship teams at Carson-Newman.
“Signing days are special days; a reflection of someone’s career, athletically and academically, on the field and off the field,” said Campbell Head Football Coach Justin Price. The 11th year head coach told Newman that he’ll be challenged, and that he’s seen him rise to challenges.
“He’s so driven and dedicated. He never missed a practice,” said his mom, Jennifer Newman. She goes on to say how much he reminds her of her late father, Jerry Monday, the longtime WLAF radio announcer.
Both Prices played at Maryville as did Miller and Reece. “I keep up with the program. It is a special place to us (twin brother Matt). It’s exciting that Gavin’s going to such a good program and good institution,” said Coach Justin Price.
Coach Chris Honeycutt, who starred four seasons at Williamsburg for Cumberlands, told Newman how proud he is of him and that very few football players from here have played four years of college football. “Stay the course and become one of those numbers,” said Honeycutt.
Newman’s teammate Thomas Johnson signed with Maryville back in February. Scots’ coaches have been talking with Newman for a couple of months. “I wanted to continue to play football, and this is my chance. I’m not sure if I’ll play offense or defense, but I do know we’ll get started on June 1,” said the wide receiver/safety.
“Gavin’s a very highly intelligent football player. He’s plays wideout and safety and knows what the other positions are supposed to be doing,” said Justin Price.
When asked which game over his career may have been his best, Newman thought for a moment and said, “Carter, last season here at home.”
Newman, a straight-A student, has been decided on a major for quite some time. He’ll study mechanical engineering.
“He’s over the moon about this and has worked really hard to get here,” said Jennifer. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/21/2021-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S JOSH PARKER)