WS Chronicle

After a strong senior season with the Reagan Raiders, last week standout middle linebacker Christian Hicks signed his letter of intent to continue his education and football career at Mars Hill University.

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound linebacker who also played defensive end for the Raiders said, although he had offers from several other schools, when he visited Mars Hill he instantly felt like he was at home. The fact that his father, Michael Hicks, played at Mars Hill also played a major role in Hicks’ decision to become a Lion.

“The fact that it’s my dad’s alma mater, I always thought about going there and then when I visited it just felt like home,” Hicks said.

Michael Hicks said during the recruiting process he told his son that Mars Hill was a good school, but he left the final decision up to him. He said he didn’t want to put any pressure on Christian to follow in his footsteps.

“I wanted him to make his own choice. I just told him to go with what his instincts say and if it works for him, go with it,” said Hicks when talking about his son’s decision to attend Mars Hill.

During his senior season at Reagan, Hicks racked up 80 tackles, five sacks, five pass deflections and countless jaw-dropping hits that brought the crowd to their feet. When asked about his playing style, Hicks said he plays every down full speed like Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier.

He said, “I know he’s hurt right now, but when he was playing he was always vocal and a leader on defense. And that’s how I see myself, a vocal leader who is always going to bring energy to the field and give it 110 percent.”

Before heading off to Mars Hill, Hicks said there are a few things he plans to work on to make sure he’s ready for the next level. Hicks said he understands that there is a big difference between high school football and college football.

“I have to get bigger. I know college is a different level than high school, so I have to be mentally and physically ready for that change,” said Hicks. “At the next level I know I’m going to have to work. You have to know what you’re doing when you’re on the field because college football is like a business and you can lose your position and scholarship if you don’t do your job.”

When he’s finished with his four years at Mars Hill, Hicks said he wanted to be remembered as someone who was a hard worker and leader who set the example for other student-athletes.

“I want the fans to say I was a hard worker and that I was a leader who helped others reach success. And then they’re going to see me heading to the NFL.”