Toney signs with Wildcats

How a coach treats a prospect on a recruiting visit can make a world of difference on where that athlete attends college.

It certainly did with Sebring football standout Tevin Toney.

Toney, a lightning-quick defensive end, originally committed to Alabama A&M, but changed his mind after visiting Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach over the weekend.

Toney made it official on Wednesday morning by signing a scholarship to play football for Bethune-Cookman in the fall.

"What swayed me to go to Bethune-Cookman was that the coaches were more sociable and took an interest in me," said Toney. "They talked to me and wanted to learn what I was all about.

"I felt comfortable with the school, it's not that far from home and my family will be able to come watch me play."

Bethune-Cookman competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference against Delaware State, Florida A&M, Hampton University, Howard University, Morgan Sate, Norfolk State, North Carolina A&T and South Carolina State.

Brian Jenkins was named Bethune-Cookman's football coach in December and the Wildcats' coach has been busy recruiting athletes since his arrival.

"Coach Jenkins said I will probably stay at defensive end," Toney said. "I just want to continue to play football and make a contribution.

"I worked hard for this day and I'm going to hit the weights to try and get stronger for the next level."

Toney becomes the 25th Blue Streak football player to sign a college scholarship or grant-in-aid in the last six years under the guidance of Sebring coach Jared Hamlin.

"Tevin is a top-notch young man with an outstanding work ethic and character," said Hamlin. "He's always worked hard and the way he carries himself separates him from the rest.

"We're very proud of Tevin because our job is to develop the players ability on the football field and to help them get an education."

Toney, who was selected to play in the prestigious Florida Athletic Coaches Association North-South All-Star Football Classic, has a lot of work ahead of him as he prepares for the rigors of college football.

"It's wonderful to see Tevin realize his dream of playing college football," Hamlin said. "If he keeps his mind focused and takes care of business on the field and with his studies, he's going to be fine."

Being close to home was important for Toney's family as well.

"I couldn't be more proud of Tevin," said mother, Tasha Hunter. "I am very excited he's staying in the state, and I thank God that he's going to have this opportunity."

Toney knows he's going to have to bulk up his frame to stand the pounding and punishment of college football.

"I've got a chance to play right away, but I wouldn't mind being red-shirted my freshman year," said Toney. "That would give me the chance to hit the weights and get stronger.

"I've got the quickness, but I need to get stronger to be able to shed the blocks of the offensive linemen so I can reach my full potential."