Clinton High School recently hosted a signing ceremony for two standout student-athletes, Tushawan Richardson and Jamirah Rivers, as they committed to continuing their academic and athletic pursuits at the college level.
Richardson, who will play football at Newberry College, expressed his gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his high school career. "I appreciate my mom, for making stuff happen for me. I’m really thankful for Clinton High School, and I’m thankful for everyone who’s ever helped me in my life. I really appreciate it."
When asked how she felt about her son going to college, Richardson's mother emotionally said, “I’m excited and proud. I’m happy that he’s able to go to college, and continue on with what it is that he loves doing.. I’m not ready for him to go anywhere. When that’s your baby, you’re not ready for them to go anywhere. The house won’t be the same. He is one of a kind.”
Rivers, who will cheer for Erskine College, is eager to embark on this new chapter of her life. "I’m super excited to be cheering, I’ve been cheering all four years… I am currently the Cheer Captain... I’m really excited to go to college and see how different it is from high school, and to meet new people."
Rivers' mother expressed her pride in her daughter, stating,“Proud is an understatement. I tell her one thing I’ve always told her, ‘to whom much is given, much is required...’ I’m just glad she found a school that fits her.”
Their coaches also offered words of praise and encouragement. Cole Mars, Head Cheerleading Coach and Spanish Teacher, reflected on Rivers' growth and development, stating, "She was the first athlete that really came from Freshman year to now with me, and that is something that is just a full circle moment. It makes me very happy to see that she’s moving on."
Corey Fountain, Head Football Coach, acknowledged the bittersweet nature of this milestone, saying, "Tushawan is one of our best players that’s going to be graduating, we’re going to hate to see him go. He’s been a big playmaker for us all year, not only in football, but in basketball as well, so I know Coach Glenn will miss him, too. It’s kind of like mixed emotions, you’re happy for him because you’re like the proud dad, he’s going off and going to do great things in Newberry, but you’re still sad because you’ve been with him for so long, from middle school, all the way up through high school."
As Tushawan Richardson and Jamirah Rivers close this chapter and embark on their new adventures, they carry with them the support and pride of their family, friends, and community. Their accomplishments are a shining example of the talent and determination that exists within Clinton High School, and their futures are undoubtedly bright. With their passions guiding them, they're poised to make a lasting impact.
