By LEONARD GRAY

Managing Editor

LULING – National Signing Day for high school athletic scholarships swept up five St. Charles Parish football players – four from Hahnville High School

Signing full athletic scholarships Wednesday were Chris Lanaux of Luling, Bryant Lee of Boutte, Rashad Roussell of Luling and Brandon Sam of Boutte.

Lanaux, a defensive lineman for Hahnville High, is the son of Lisa and Danny Lanaux of Luling. He has signed with Rickey Bustle and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

“You want to go to a school where you’re first on their list. I was not only welcomed by the head coach but the players also called to welcome me. When the head coach came to my house, it kind of sealed the deal. My parents have been waiting on this day a long, long time.”

Lanaux added, “I feel like no matter where I go, I’ll miss Coach Valdin and what he did for me.”

Lee, the quarterback son of Michael and Patricia Lee of Boutte, is headed for Pete Richardson and Southern University. He said his coaches advised him as to his choice telling him “it’s a good place to go.” Additionally, Lee continued, “The coaches made me feel like I was at home.”

Lee plans to major in sports medicine.

Roussell, the son of Paulette Byrd of Luling, said of his choice, West Virginia, “it’s got a winning program. I just love the school, and I’ve got a lot of friends at the school.”

The defensive tackle’s academic plan is to major in sociology or psychology.

Sam, the son of Annette Sandolph and stepson of Marshall Sandolph of Boutte, said of his choice, Grambling State University, “I like the campus and the atmosphere. They made me feel like family.

The linebacker plans to major in sports medicine.

Hahnville head coach Lou Valdin briefly commented, “It’s my favorite day of the year, right here.”

The student-athletes were briefly addressed by School Board Member Alfred Green and Superintendent Dr. Rodney Lafon at the school board central office in Luling, where the signings took place.

Green stressed to the student-athletes to take advantage of their good opportunities but keep their education uppermost in their minds while still striving for the same excellence on the football field.

Lafon likened the scholarships to “winning the lottery,” but pointed out that many lottery winners quickly burn through their winnings. “Don’t blow it,” Lafon said.