Johnekins To Apprentice School
On Friday, February 4, Wheeler County High School's Shawn Johnekins signed his letter of intent to play football for The Apprentice School in Newport News, VA. It is a unique opportunity to learn skills to work in the shipyards while going to college and getting to play sports at the same time.
Johnekins stated, “I really wanted to work with diesel engines, and one day want to open my own shop. I really like the campus as well as having the ability to get my degree while working. I am looking forward to being able to get up there, learn, and get to play football as well. I want to thank God, of course my parents, and my coaches for all they have put in.”
His father David added, “We are very proud of him. We told him that whatever he wanted to do just do it 100% and through the grace of God it would work out. We look forward to getting to go see him play football, but we are also very excited about him getting his education and having this opportunity. We thank all of the coaches for all they have done to help make this happen.”
Head Coach Thomas Smith said, “Shawn has probably improved as much as anyone on the team. Coach Collins has worked so much with him on his footwork and handwork. He has really made strides in his technique and it shows. He didn't want to initially go to college; he wanted to just get to work. He is already enrolled in a diesel mechanic program, and that is what he wants to do, but this is a great opportunity for him to do both. It is a perfect fit for him.”
There was also a twist to this story. Johnekins was scheduled for his trip to visit the school when his father had a medical emergency the day before he was supposed to go. The Wheeler staff had just gotten back from Kentucky helping to take another player for a visit, and immediately got to work getting Johnekins a plane ticket to Virginia since his father was not going to be able to drive him.
