BY DAVID FOLSE II

Sports Editor

RESERVE-East St. John had a busy Wednesday.

Offensive lineman/defensive lineman Kerry Raymond signed with the University of Louisiana-Monroe and defensive back Eliott Thomas signed with Indiana State University.

The duo were major factors in the Wildcats drive to the 5A State Semifinals this past season.

Raymond said he is excited to begin his career as a ULM Indian.

“I have family that is not too far from Monroe,” Raymond said. “So that will make the transition a little easier..

“The way things are going up there at Monroe, I really think I have a chance to be successful. The coaches really like me. It was really the best decision that I could ever make.”

A versatile player who can play on either side of the line of scrimmage, Raymond believes he has the chance for immediate playing time.

“It does not matter to me,” Raymond said. “I just want to play. It’s not a big thing to me.

“Because of that, I really think I can go out there and play as a true freshmen. If I can get my academics in fully order, I really think that I will have the chance to play.”