Dreams come true for Bench, Gurley

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Cairo quarterback Steven Bench hugs his grandmother Mary Cox after Bench signed a letter-of-intent on Wednesday to attend Penn State. Clint Thompson/Times-Enterprise

February 1, 2012

Clint Thompson CNHI The Times Enterprise Wed Feb 01, 2012, 07:11 PM EST

CAIRO — It’s not every year a school the size of Cairo High has two football players to sign letters-of-intent with FCS schools.

The Syrupmakers have two.

Fulfilling lifelong dreams, quarterback Steven Bench and safety T.J. Gurley make their collegiate decisions official on Wednesday, National Signing Day. Bench signed with Penn State University and T.J. Gurley inked with South Carolina.

“It’s a blessing, it really is,” said Bench. “I’ve been lucky enough to have a great high school career and have a chance to play four more years. It’s a dream come true.”

Gurley added, “I’ve been dreaming about this since I was little. I’m just thanking God and am just happy and relieved.”

Gurley was an all-region and all-state performer at defensive back. The three-year starter recorded 82 tackles and four interceptions as a senior. Gurley’s excitement was evident when he discussed playing in the SEC.

“I’m about to go play for a legendary coach, Steve Spurrier, in the best conference in football,” Gurley said. “I’m going to play against LSU, Florida, Arkansas. It’s big-time football. I’m just happy.”

For full details, see Thursday's edition of the Times-Enterprise.

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Dreams come true for Bench, Gurley

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