The Warrenton football program recently made the first of what Coach Steve McDowell hopes will be several college commitments from this year's graduating class.

Senior Logan Shay signed his letter of intent to play for Culver-Stockton College out of Canton, Mo., where he will most likely make a position change.

Shay, a GAC All-Conference defensive end this past season, is anticipating a move to outside linebacker to better accommodate his 5-foot-11, 210-pound frame.

“I couldn't be more happy for the kid,” said McDowell. “He's one that has a plan on what he wants to do, and it's exciting that he gets to play football right a long with that.”

Shay says he chose Culver-Stockton over a handful of other schools and was strongly impressed by its academic programs catered to his needs.

“I really liked their nursing program,” said Shay.

The football personnel also left an impression.

“On my official visit their program seemed like it was solid,” said Shay. “I really liked the coach and players. It seemed liked a place where a high school recruit could turn into a good college player.”

Shay says he has desired to play college football since the age of eight or nine. Now he is just grateful to be fulfilling his dream.

“I was just glad I could sign somewhere to play and continue to buy myself another four years,” said Shay.

As a three-year starter, he says his skill set progressed dramatically from his freshman year.

“I improved exponentially due to the training from the coaches and my fellow players,” said Shay. “Working in the offseason and putting the hours in definitely helped me see a huge jump in my ability.”

Now he is anxious to see how he fits into the college football landscape.

“I'm definitely curious to test myself personally against athletes that are on a higher level to start with and see where I'm at on a bigger scale,” said Shay.

McDowell says Shay's intangibles should carry him far at the next level.

“His work ethic toward the game is outstanding,” said McDowell. “He's always been committed to the weight room during the offseason … He had a motor that never quit, and he's one of those types of kids that never came out of a ballgame.”

Shay is joining a Culver-Stockton team that is a member of the Heart of America Athletic Conference and finished 2-9 last season.

Warrenton senior Logan Shay, front row center, recently signed a letter of intent to play football at Culver-Stockton College.