Crenshaw Christian Academy (CCA) celebrated the achievements of three standout seniors on April 24 during a signing ceremony that honored their post-graduation commitments to both service and sport. Dylan Bentley has signed to play football at Clarke University in Iowa, while classmates JB Williams and Jake Lawrence enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

“We’re really proud of everything he’s accomplished,” said Scott Bentley, Dylan’s brother. “I appreciate Coach Burleson for everything he’s done for him at CCA, and I look forward to seeing what he can do at Clark University in Iowa.”

Dylan Bentley, a dedicated athlete, will be heading more than 900 miles from home to pursue his dream on and off the football field. His mother, Jessica Eastman, expressed pride in his journey. 

“Brian (Keith) and I couldn’t be any prouder of Dylan following his dream and passion,” Eastman said. “He has always shown his love for football and wanting to be on the field. I can’t wait to watch him continue to take the field at Clarke University while pursuing his education and dream.”

Dylan admitted the move would be a major life transition. 

“It’s a lot of big changes,” Dylan said. “Coming from a small town to a big college city, from the warm weather to the freezing cold and all that, it’s going to be different but I’m excited.”

While Bentley prepares for college athletics, his classmates Williams and Lawrence are stepping into a different kind of challenge — military service. JB Williams, the first in his family to enlist, will soon report for basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina.

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while and I hope it will help make me just an all around better person,” JB said.

His mother, Brooke Ward, shared heartfelt words about her son’s commitment to serve his country. 

“I am very, very proud of him and his decision,” Ward said. “Of course, we’re going to miss him, but we’re very proud of him having the courage to do something like this.”

Lawrence will join Williams at Parris Island, following in the footsteps of his Marine father.

“I’m going into the Marine Corps to become a better person and become a man,” Jake said. “I’m a little nervous but also excited.”

Jake’s mother, Lisa Lawrence, added, “I’m excited for him and I’m proud of him. It’s going to be a big change. It’s going to be hard having him gone and knowing all the possibilities but I’m very proud of him.”

Headmistress Becky Baggett praised all three students for their ambition. 

“We’re very proud of our guys for their dedication to go into the military and of course we’re always proud when our boys go on to play ball in college, so we’re just very proud and hope to have more of them in the future,” she said.

Head football coach Brandon Burleson echoed that pride.

“Today we’re honoring three boys — two are signing to go into the Marines and making a huge life choice and sacrifices that I’m very proud of them for making,” Burleson said. “And Dylan is accepting a college football offer to Clark University in Iowa. It’s an NAIA school so it’s a great opportunity for him. He’s gonna go and do great things.”