DeShawn Gilbert Signs Letter to Play Football at Siena Heights

Clawson High School senior made his college football plans official on Thursday, signing a letter of intent to Siena Heights University in Adrian, MI.

The 17-year-old wide receiver/corner back will join the Saints football team this fall on a partial scholarship. 

For Gilbert, it's a dream come true.

"It's always been my passion to have the label of playing college football," Gilbert said. "I'd like to go as far as I can with my football career."

Gilbert signed the letter in the media center before family members, teammates, Clawson head football coach Jim Sparks and Siena Heights defensive coordinator Matt Kohn.

Gilbert has played football since the age of 9. He played in the Oak Park Trojans youth football league before joining the Clawson varsity football team his sophomore year.

He visited Siena Heights before making a final decision and said the football program, coaches and players were impressive.

"It just seemed like a good atmosphere," Gilbert said. "I just kind of felt my place there."

Kohn said the football program at Siena Heights is relatively new. It formed last year and is part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Division 1. The team went 8-1 in its first season. 

Kohn said coaches look for integrity and character when searching for recruits.

"We got rave reports of DeShawn," Kohn said. "He's a heck of a football player. He has the ability to have an impact for us immediately."

Gilbert will have some decisions to make before getting to Siena Heights. He's undecided on a college major, and is considering sports management or graphic design. He also is uncertain if whether he wants to play offense or defense.

Not matter what he decides, Sparks said he is mostly happy to see Gilbert succeed.

"He's always been talented," Coach Sparks said. "He's left a legacy for kids to follow."

Gilbert's mother, Elaine Gilbert, said she was overjoyed at the signing event.

"He's my only son," Elaine Gilbert said. "It's amazing to watch him grow. This just adds to the happiness and joy."