Among a small group of family, coaches and teammates, free safety Keshawn Ward signed a letter of intent to play football at Southern Missouri State University.

“I felt nervous at first, but all the hard work paid off,” said Ward.

Ward wasn’t a star in high school, but he put in hard work as a student at LMC. “It was like climbing a mountain. I had to work hard to go up,” he said. “I want to serve as an inspiration to others.”

Shipe spoke about Ward to the small crowd, praising his effort and commitment to the team. “His hard work and dedication gave him the opportunity to move on to the next level,” said Shipe.

“He was a huge asset to our team,” Shipe added later. “He lead by example, and it shows.”

Ward continually gave 120 percent both on and off the field.

“He’s taking care of business in the classroom,” Shipe said.

Ward finished last season with the third most tackles on the team, 53, and 3 interceptions.

the field.

“He’s taking care of business in the classroom,” Shipe said.

Ward finished last season with the third most tackles on the team, 53, and 3 interceptions.