The Delaplain to Williams touchdown pass has been a staple of Garvin County football since both boys were in flag football. Now the two dynamic players will continue their academic and athletic careers at Hendrix College.
Wynnewood Savages quarterback Phoenix Delaplain and wide receiver Marques Williams officially signed letters of intent Feb. 4 to play at Hendrix.
“I’m really proud of these two young men,” said Coach Brad O’Steen during the signing event. “These young men have an opportunity to continue their education and play at the next level. We’re proud of them. We’re excited that they have the opportunity to play the game they love.”
The two athletes first met playing together in flag football. Delaplain threw one of his first touchdown passes to Williams during flag football.
They both dreamed of someday playing football at the collegiate level.
“He has worked hard and committed to his dream to play college football, and I’m excited to watch his dream unfold,” said Holly Delaplain, Phoenix’s mother.
As they moved into playing tackle football at school, Williams played at Wynnewood, and Delaplain played at Pauls Valley. Then Delaplain transferred schools, reuniting the two as Wynnewood Savages for their final two seasons of high school football.
“I like being out there with the guys and my family,” Delaplain said. “Being out there with your friends is something you remember for life.”
Hendrix College, located in Conway, Ark., is a private college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Their athletic teams are the Warriors and participate in NCAA Division III.
“I really liked the campus and the atmosphere they play in,” Williams said. “The coaches are good at developing people, and I like their scheme.”
Another deciding factor was that Hendrix recruited both boys to continue playing together, a rarity in collegiate recruiting.
“The great chemistry is already there, and I get to continue this journey with one of my best friends,” Delaplain said.
The two also plan to room together, and both plan to study physical therapy.
“I love sports, so this is another way to be around sports when I’m done playing,” Williams said.
Delaplain went through physical therapy himself for a shoulder injury a year and a half ago.
“It will be good to help people who love being around sports the way I do,” he said.
At the signing event, family members, friends and teammates sported Warriors shirts and enjoyed Warriordecorated desserts. Both boys will have a strong community behind them as they head off to college.
“I’m proud of him and excited for his journey. He’s a great kid, and he deserves the best,” said Sheldon Williams, Marques’s father. “I just want him to keep the Lord first in his life, and then everything else will be a blessing.”
