Brathwaite, McInnis, Briggs Among Top Recruits

 varsity football may have struggled this past season, but head coach Ron Bellamy said he believes they won't be among the bottom of the standings for much longer.

The reason, actually, is because of four departing seniors — Kyle Croskey, Patrick Russell, C.J. Brathwaite, and Chauncey Briggs — who signed their letters of intent to play at university level in the media center Wednesday.

"These guys set the foundation, wins and losses aside. These were some of the guys who worked the hardest, and you can see that in where they're headed. Guys we still have want to emulate these guys, who are going to great schools," Bellamy said.

Brathwaite in particular was reported to be the apple in the eyes of Pacific-12 Conference schools in Arizona State and Washington State, and even had a verbal commitment to move and play as a Cougar in Pullman, WA.

However, Brathwaite said, when then-head coach Paul Wulff was fired in November, the new head coach hired, Mike Leach, pulled Brathwaite's scholarship.

This was a learning experience for the Lakers' star running back, who was voted most valuable player by coaches after the season. While he said he was excited to be courted by Bowl Championship Series-conference schools out west, he's more excited for the opportunity to play and to show other schools what they're missing out on. Living close to home doesn't hurt, either.

"I pretty much learned that you have to look at the big picture. It's not about signing with a big name so you can brag about it, it's about figuring out where you're going to live for at least the next four years," Brathwaite said. "I'll be playing primarily as a running back, but I'll have a chance to return kicks and punts and play as a slot. It worked out pretty well."

Russell signed with Alma, where he figures to wrestle as well as play on the defensive line. Head coach Ron Bellamy praised Russell for giving up his original position on the offensive line to play on the defensive line in his senior season, in order to benefit the team and allow Briggs the chance to play after moving to the township from Atlanta the previous summer.

Russell said that he was drawn to Alma's coaching staffs, homey environment, and rigorous academic schedule. He plans to become a pre-med major.

Croskey signed with Northern Michigan after being heavily recruited by Marian. Briggs will move to Dallas and play for former NFL head coach June Jones at Southern Methodist, where he's excited to block for Oxford running back Prescott Line.

"I feel great on the campus," said Briggs, who may redshirt as a freshman. "I'm excited for their academics and the chance to get a Master's degree by the time I graduate in four years. It's a great day."

St. Mary's to graduate McInnis, Cuini, Talley

A new era begins at , as a trio that helped bring the Eaglets their signed their National Letters of Intent.

Count Spencer McInnis among those who are ready for the next challenge.

The running back voted most valuable player from the 2011 title team begins anew in Miami (OH), without his brother, Parker McInnis, and his cousin, Grant Niemiec, juniors who starred with McInnis in the backfield this season. However, McInnis won't feel entirely away from home — in fact, that's why he chose Miami in the first place.

"It's a similar atmosphere, just a little bigger," said McInnis, who plans to major in architecture. "I understand the running back position is wide open and that makes me happy. I'm sad to leave this team, but I'm happy with the choices I've made."

Linebacker David Talley added that he, too, feels comfortable with his college choice due to the similar environment that Grand Valley State offers in comparison with St. Mary's. Talley said he plans to redshirt in his first year for the Lakers, who went 8-3 last season.

After being courted by schools including Albion and Denison State, cornerback Charlie Ciuni goes to Hillsdale with a lot of confidence after winning the state championship. He plans to major in pre-law.

"We’re excited to have Charlie," said Hillsdale head coach Keith Otterbein. "He brings a good combination of speed and athleticism and strength that are going to help him be a contributor for us, just like he’s been a contributor for St. Mary’s."

OLSM coach George Porritt said that the 2012 class, leaves behind a legacy that will be difficult to size up apart from their championship. "It's just their consistency," he said. "Their approach to the game and the way they practice. This team wanted to get there early, wanted to do it on their own, and that showed on the field. They will be great ambassadors for the school."

Star linebacker and Michigan recruit James Ross is said to be signing his letter soon, but was not at the St. Mary's event Wednesday due to a prior obligation.