Ryin Ruddy, head coach Todd Thieken, Drew Knaggs, assistant coach T.J. Thieken.

By DOUG DONNELLY

Whiteford seniors Ryin Ruddy and Drew Knaggs signed on the dotted line this week, committing to play college football.

Ruddy will play at Division 2 Hillsdale College while Knaggs will play at Division 3 Adrian College.

Both Ruddy and Knaggs played 50 career games at Whiteford and in two state championship games.

Knaggs, who will study business management, was impressed with new Adrian College head coach Joe Palka.

“When we went on a visit, he sat down with us individually in his office and talked about his goals for us,” Knaggs said. “What he said spoke to me. It was a cool meeting.”

Knaggs isn’t sure what position he’ll play yet.

“They said they have a lot of high hopes for me,” he said. “I’m excited to go and play wherever they need me and to show what I can do.”

One bonus for Drew is the chance to play college football against his brother, Owen. Owen plays for Trine University.

“Brother Owen plays at Trine.

“Oh, I can’t wait for that,” Drew said.

Ruddy chose Hillsdale, the same college that his brothers Ty and Shea both attend. Shea is on the Chargers football team.

“I’m real excited to go there,” Ruddy said. “I’m pretty familiar with it because I’ve been up there a lot. It will be fun to play with my brother again.”

Ryin said there will likely be more Bobcat football players – from this team and in the future – playing college football.

“I think our coaches have done a great job of developing kids,” he said. “I’m sure Drew and I won’t be the last ones out of here to commit.”