Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Nick Rizzo
Jasper High School celebrated a milestone moment on Wednesday as four student-athletes officially signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Softball players Brooklyn Butler and America Montgomery and baseball players John Walker Wilson and John David “JD” Kimbrell were joined by family, coaches, and supporters for a ceremony honoring their achievements.
Jasper High School Athletic Director Jonathan Jordan opened the event with remarks highlighting the significance of the day, speaking candidly about the unseen work that goes into reaching a signing table, emphasizing that opportunities like these are earned long before the ink hits the page.
“This is a big day for these four student-athletes, and it’s a big day for Jasper High School. This doesn’t just happen; you don’t just roll a ball out there and suddenly sign an athletic scholarship. There’s a lot of hard work and a lot of hours that nobody sees,” he said.
Jordan also pointed to the network of support surrounding the athletes, including parents, coaches, and mentors, reminding the signees that their journeys have been shaped by many people investing time, energy, and belief into them.
Jasper High School softball coach Kaylee Horton praised Butler and Montgomery for their commitment and impact on the program.
“I am proud of both of these girls. Watching them reach this point has been incredible, and I’m so happy for them,” said Horton. “Brooklyn shows up every day ready to work, with a great attitude and determination. America plays with heart and passion and is the kind of player we can always count on.”
Butler signed with Itawamba Community College. She thanked her coaches, teammates, and family for their steady support.
Montgomery signed with Central Alabama Community College and expressed gratitude to her coaches, travel-ball mentors, and her Nana, who ensured she made it to every game and tournament.
Jasper High School baseball coach Pat Ware spoke highly of Wilson and Kimbrell, noting that their character matched their athletic ability.
“When you boil it down, these two check every box. They show up every day with a good attitude, they’re great teammates, and they work,” he said.
Both Wilson and Kimbrell signed with Bevill State Community College, where they will play under the leadership of coach Steve Woodard. Woodard expressed his excitement about bringing two hard-working Jasper players into his program.
“These two work extremely hard, that’s the biggest thing,” he said. “Work ethic and doing the right thing.”
Wilson thanked God, his family, and his teammates, calling the Jasper baseball program “a brotherhood.”
Kimbrell echoed that gratitude, thanking God, his coaches, and his teammates for shaping the “best four years” of his life. WL
