Miles Gifford signs with Williams Baptist College

Tuesday, Feb. 13, was Miles Gifford Day at the Mustang Athletic Complex. The Buffalo Island Central senior golfer signed a letter of intent to play golf for Williams Baptist College.

Family, friends, teammates, coaches and the student body applauded Miles as his dedication and hard work awarded him the chance to continue his golf career at the college level.

Even though Gifford did not start golfing until the eighth grade, he has had an outstanding high school career. During his four years of high school golf, Gifford and his BIC teammates have three consecutive state championships. During his freshmen year the team finished state runner-up. Gifford is also a four-time all-state golf selection. The Mustangs have an overall four year record of 243 wins and only 29 defeats.

Coach Yates congratulates senior Miles Gifford at signing.

Gifford said WBC seemed like a good fit for him and he is looking forward to going on to play for Coach Ty Jones.

Williams Baptist Golf Program is currently in its first season after being dropped in 2003.

“This is a great opportunity for Miles to further his education and golf game,” BIC Coach Justin Yates said. “Today is a day that doesn't happen to every athlete. This is the second consecutive year we have had a senior sign a letter of intent. Miles has put in a lot of hard work and dedication to practice.”

Tony Hawkins, a friend and supporter, was on hand to offer his well wishes to Miles Gifford, signing to play golf at Williams Baptist College.

Gifford said he will leave BIC with very good memories and very good friends.

“I have had a good high school experience and look forward to playing golf at Williams,” he said. “I especially want to thank my parents (Scott and Rachel Gifford), my 'big brother' Tony Hawkins who bought me my first golf clubs and has supported me, Coach Jones for seeing something in me and offering me the scholarship, Mr. Rose and Mr. Taylor (high school principal and superintendent) for their support, the teachers for helping us keep up with our school work, my fellow teammates, past and present, Cathy Qualls for her support, Coach Yates for your time and efforts staying with us and pushing us and the community for supporting us. We are leaving a legacy of a winning tradition and it has been so much fun. The people here and the school welcomed me with open arms, supported me and encouraged me. Thank you all, my success is our success.”

Coach Jones said he is excited to get Gifford on board.

Miles Gifford

“The first time I saw him play two years ago he was a lanky kid with a pink driver,” Coach Jones said. “From where he started to get to where he is now, I know that's the kind of work ethic where you don't end practice and go home. This guy will stay after and work on what he needs to work on. I am super excited to have him.”

Coach Yates said WBC is getting a good golfer and a good man.

Principal Randy Rose also expressed his congratulations to Gifford and offered his best wishes.

A reception was held following the signing ceremony.