One of Greenville High School’s standout football stars is taking his game—and his education—to the next level.

Brian Barganier, who served as a premier defensive lineman on the 2014 Greenville High School Tigers team, will be taking his talents to the Magic City as he signed a letter of intent with Jefferson State Community College Tuesday at the GHS auditorium.

The auditorium was filled with camera flashes, as well as the occasional flash of a smile from Barganier himself, as the athlete greeted family members and coaches both new and old.

Barganier added that the occasion was a culmination of effort and hard work, and reaping the rewards of it felt great.

“Just knowing that I accomplished something that I’ve always wanted to do is great,” Barganier said.

“And I get a chance to play ball again, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted.

Barganier added that there were several things that appealed to him about his college of choice, Jefferson State, but the one that proved most important was the wonderful first impression the campus left on him.

“It’s a Christian school, and the people there are so nice to you,” Barganier said.

“The atmosphere creates a great feeling when you walk on campus, and you just know that it’s your home away from home.”

While the true work will begin and end in the classroom, Barganier also acknowledged the long road ahead of him in transitioning from the realm of high school football to collegiate play.

However, he added that his Greenville High School coaches prepared him well for the challenge.

“They prepare you for it,” Barganier said. “I know it’s going to be difficult to start off with, but I know I’ll adapt to it because I’m coachable, and I’m well-taught already.  I think I’ll adapt to it.”

Though there is a laundry list of things that make Barganier excited for his future at Jeff State, one stands out among them all.

“I’m most excited about getting away from home and starting a new chapter in my life, and making people proud of the accomplishments that are yet to come,” Barganier said.