Signing to become a student-athlete in college is an enormous honor; it reflects a student’s determination and leadership. Victor Jones (12) reflects these values and more through his work on and off the football field and track. On February 19th, 2026, Jones officially committed to Maryville College in our school’s hall of fame room. With his family beside him, cheering him on into the next chapter of his life, he moves on to college and transitions from a Lenoir City Panther to a Maryville Scott. Jones will never forget his time as a panther and where it led him.
“I’ve learned that the game is 90 percent mental. We’ve overcome adversity with coaches and had injuries; that takes a mental toll,” Jones said.
Jones has faced difficult challenges that have not only taken a toll on his mental health but also his physical health. As Jones grows into an astounding athlete through our school’s athletics program. He has learned more about facing challenges like injuries. Through his love and dedication to his sport, he has recovered with help from the ones that mean the most to him.
“Bubba and my team. Bubba has had similar injuries, and that has brought us closer,” Jones said.
With his friends at his side and willpower, Jones has powered through injuries that could keep others weak, showing his mental strength and perseverance. But not just one teammate has supported him throughout his high school career. Jones’ coaches and other teammates have also impacted his experience playing football. With his team, he has navigated through the rough patches in his career. Without their support, Jones would not be the incredible athlete he is today.
“I’m excited for the opportunity, it is a great school. I’ll get to play football and track,” Jones said.
With the perks of playing football, he also gets to play another sport he loves. Becoming a multi-sport athlete in college can be a difficult decision, but Jones is ready for whatever challenges he faces.
“I hope to graduate, and I’m studying exercise science in athletic training,” Jones said.
Jones shows us his determination in the field with his personal goals he has set for himself academically. As an athlete, Jones strives to learn more about sports and the importance of physical fitness through his college major.
Although Jones will move on to a new chapter of his life, it will be full of exciting new experiences he will get to look back on for the rest of his life. The memories he has made, the lessons he’s learned, and the friendships he has built will and has shaped him into the athlete he is today. We may be losing a valuable, remarkable panther, but we can take pride in knowing that he will carry our school’s spirit with him as he moves on to college. As we lose a panther, we gain an alumni who will reflect their panther pride onto other schools as they move on to a brighter future he has been dreaming of for his whole life.
