When Bam Brima looked down at his letter of intent to attend Pittsburgh University a flood of emotions washed over him. The same could be said for his teammate, Connor Watkins, who was sitting just a few feet away signing his letter to attend Villanova University.

It was an amazing day for the area as three players split between Loyalsock and Williamsport signed letters of intent to play Division I football. As Brima and Watkins signed their letters at Loyalsock, Williamsport’s Treyson Potts signed his letter to attend Minnesota in the fall.

“It was scary, but very exciting too,” Brima said. “I’m glad I did it. It was special. Just being able to go to school and play something that I love is a dream.”

Brima even has some extra motivation after seeing former Pittsburgh player Aaron Donald’s locker still intact at the school he chose. Donald is the current sack leader of the NFL and has been outstanding since joining the Rams. He is widely considered the best defensive tackle in football and Brima has certainly taken notice.

“He still has his locker in the locker room,” Brima said. “Just the fact he went to Pitt, and you see the things he’s been able to do. It’s amazing.”

Both players came to Loyalsock with high hopes. Watkins has grown and matured throughout his years spent as a young player working his way through various sports.

“It was super cool, and something not very many kids get to do,” Watkins said. “We both had a lot of support from fellow students, and we’re both very appreciative. It was nice.”
Villanova posted a video of Watkins to its official Twitter feed to celebrate the signing and new chapter in Watkins’ life.

“It was cool,” Watkins said. “They’ve shown a lot of support to all their recruits. It’s fun.”

For Ron “CI” Insinger, who has coached Watkins throughout his life, it was a special day as both their coach and Athletic Director.

“It makes my job just so much easier and better,” Insinger said. “I’m just so proud and happy to be a part of it. Just to get my picture taken with two kids that are getting full rides is just icing on the cake.”

Brima was just a kid trying to find a home midway through the football season two years ago. He walked into Insinger’s office, quiet and just wanting a chance. Since then he has grown into a contributor in two sports.

“I’ve had an opportunity to coach both of these guys, and they are elite athletes,” Insinger said. “I’m just so happy for them.”