CUTLINE: Flanked by his family, Brier Younce (second from left), an EBCI tribal member and senior at Swain County High School, signs a letter of intent on Friday, April 6 to play football next year at Emory & Henry College in Virginia. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photos)
By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.
ONE FEATHER STAFF
BRYSON CITY – Brier Younce, an EBCI tribal member and senior at Swain County High School, signed a letter of intent on Friday, April 6 to play football next year at Emory & Henry College.
“We praise his level of commitment that it takes to do the things to get to the next level,” Neil Blankenship, Swain County head football coach, said during Friday’s signing. “The biggest day is when they get through and graduate at the next level. I would like to congratulate Brier and his family on going to the next level at Emory & Henry.”
Younce finished his career as a Maroon Devil with 66 total receptions for 1,208 yards and 14 TDs. This past season, he led the team with 35 receptions for 729 yards and 8 TDs. In addition, this past season he also returned 6 punts for 59 yards and had 5 interceptions including one he returned for a touchdown.
“I think it’s really exciting,” said Younce on going to play college football. “There’s not many people who have the opportunity to go and play at the next level.”
He plans to study either mechanical or electrical engineering at Emory & Henry.
“I’m super proud,” said Amanda Younce, Brier’s mother. “He’s worked hard and he deserves it.”
When asked how long he’s dreamt of playing college football, she said, “Since he was a pee wee.”
Emory & Henry College, located in Emory, Va., is a Division III school and competes in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference.
