Shermans Waymon James makes commitment

SHS' James commits to TCU

Sherman junior running back and kick returner Waymon James verbally committed to Texas Christian University on Tuesday.

James (5-9, 203) ran a 4.41 40-yard dash according to Rivals.com and has a combined 290 carries for 2,723 yards and 29 touchdowns. He chose TCU over offers from Nebraska, Texas Tech, Georgia Tech, Tulsa and Utah and is the ninth commitment to the Horned Frogs' recruiting class of 2009. Sherman head coach Drew Young was contacted by TCU tight ends/special teams coach Dan Sharp about the decision Monday evening.

"It's a great opportunity for Waymon, and committing early definitely puts his mind at ease," Young said. "He won't have to worry about recruiters calling him so much, and now he can focus on the task at hand."

James is in the midst of spring practice and will work with the team during summer 7-on-7 drills in preparation for the fall. The Bearcats are in a newly-aligned District 9-4A with an extra playoff berth being added this fall.

One thing James, as does any player in his situation, must concentrate on is making sure he keeps his grades up. His decision has allowed him to focus solely on football, a dangerous thought to the Bearcats' 2008 opponents.

"Well, for one, it's close to home," James told PurpleMenace.com on Monday. "I've been talking to the coaches, and I like what they've been saying. They are always straight forward with me, and I believe what they are saying. I really like to (the) coaching staff a lot too, (and) that's one of the main reasons that I committed."

James is one of several Bearcat football players who will play at the collegiate level. The list includes Jeremy Gray (Oklahoma State), Matt Rome, David Alvarez and Daniel Inman (East Central, Okla.), Greg Millerick (Bridgewater, Va.) and most recently Greg Fife (Austin College).

Sixteen Sherman athletes will participate in collegiate athletics in the 2008-09 school year, and James is the latest big name to headline the 2009-10 class.

"It's not only a great thing for Waymon, but it's nice attention for the community," Young said. "When our kids are practicing, and the recruiters come by, they pick up their play a bit."

Tyler Clifton, Sports Staff, Sherman Herald Democrat