sports@macon.com

KATHLEEN -- Veterans wide receiver Malik Broughton entered the final week of recruiting still undecided about where he would choose to attend college.

The 6-foot-4, 215-pound prospect made his decision final Wednesday, however, when he chose Albany State over Valdosta State.

“Albany State was willing to offer me a full scholarship, and that was pretty much why I chose them,” Broughton said. “They feel like I have a lot of potential and they like my frame. I really hit it off with the coaches at Albany State, and it feels like home.”

Surrounded by his family, coaches, and teammates, Wednesday’s ceremony was clearly a special one for Broughton.

“It’s amazing to have everybody in here cheering me on and finally knowing exactly where I’m going to go,” Broughton said. “It’s kind of relieving. I’m just ready to get over there (Albany State) now.”

Veterans head coach David Bruce believes that his standout receiver will be an asset to the Rams both on the field and off once he arrives on campus.

“He’s a great kid,” Bruce said. “He’s a hard worker, and he’s very respectful. He’s just a credit to his family. For a receiver, he’s very physical. He’s the kind of guy that can give you that deep threat and he has deceptive speed. He’s a kid that can make a big play for you when you need it.”

With a program that’s only a few years old, Bruce hopes that Broughton continuing his education will be an example to younger players for the Warhawks.

“It gives other kids something to shoot for,” Bruce said. “They realize that if they work hard, this could possibly be their future, too.”

The Broughton family figures to be in this same position next year with Malik’s younger brother, Cortez Broughton. Cortez has drawn the early attention of college recruiters as a potential defensive tackle or offensive lineman.

“Cortez is going to be a very good football player,” Bruce said. “We are very excited to see what he’s going to do for us. His senior year is coming up and we’re expecting big things from him.”