Some of the top high school football players in the area made their college choices official on National Signing Day. Among them is Cape Coral defensive back Almirian Thomas, who will be trading the orange and blue of the Seahawks for the orange and navy blue of the University of Illinois.
Thomas committed to the Fighting Illini in April after receiving his first Division I offer from them. He remained steadfast in his decision, officially becoming a signee on signing day.
“I always thought I was going to college, but I didn’t have a clear visual of how I was going to get there,” said Thomas. “But it was through trials and tribulations that I was able to overcome them.”
Thomas, a 3-star defensive back, signed his letter of intent at the Stars Complex in Fort Myers, surrounded by coaches, family, and friends. Even his new defensive coordinator, Aaron Henry, who is from Immokalee, appeared via FaceTime.
Thomas plans to enroll early at Illinois, attracted by the Fighting Illini’s culture and coaches.
“They always stayed in contact with me,” said Thomas. “Through my whole football season, we were talking. Through the whole football season, they were telling me what I needed to get done. They told me they want me to get up there early.”
As Thomas celebrated the moment, he reflected on his mother, Ceclin, who passed away before his sophomore year.
“She gave us her last breath,” said Thomas. “So she used to take us to practice every day faithfully, even with her health being what it was. She was still finding a way. That was my inspiration. Even though something happened in life, just keep pushing and fight through it. And she showed me that. She showed me what true strength is.”