By ROY HESS, Staff Writer
Morgan Borland is not only switching schools, he’s changing climates.
The standout senior outside linebacker from Brownsville Veterans Memorial signed a scholarship agreement Monday to play NAIA football for the University of Jamestown in North Dakota, where the temperatures are known to dip into the single digits or lower, and the playing conditions sometimes include snow on game days during the fall.
Borland, a two-year starter for the Chargers who registered 168 career tackles, including 91 during the 2014 season, says he’s ready for the cold and even the white stuff.
“Today it actually snowed in North Dakota,” said the 5-foot-11, 175-pound Borland at his on-campus signing ceremony. “I was born and raised in Wisconsin, so I kind of have that cold feeling in me already.”
Chargers coachDavid Cantu said Borland is the type of player that makes things happen on the football field because of his maturity.
“Morgan is extremely dedicated and mature,” Cantu said. “I believe he’ll be successful in college because he has a passion for the game, and I’d have to say he’s one of the most mature players I’ve ever coached in high school.
“Seeing an athlete sign to play in college like this actually feels better than a win on the football field,” Cantu added. “Here’s an athlete that has taken something he loves and has a passion for and is using it to help further his education. I just feel proud today.”
The graduating senior said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue his football career at the next level.
“It feels really exciting to have this new step in my life,” said Borland, an all-district and All-Metro performer. “To be able to play college ball feels amazing.
“I feel my (defensive) technique has improved a lot, and I hope I’ll be able to help out my new team a lot,” he added. “I couldn’t have done this without the help of my teammates. They’ve done some really awesome things throughout the years (we’ve played together).”
Borland said he plans to study graphic design and audio/video in college.
“I just want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my whole life and has helped me accomplish what I’m doing today,” he said.
Roy Hess covers sports for The Brownsville Herald. You can reach him via email at [email protected]. On Twitter he’s @HessRgehess.