LOUISIANA, Mo.– Louisiana High School football standouts Ethen Harrison and Alec Polston signed their letters of intent letter to continue their academic and athletic careers at William Woods University.

In May 2023, William Woods University announced the addition of two new sports programs — men’s intercollegiate football and women’s flag football. In the college’s 154 year history, this is the first time William Woods has offered football.

A member of the American Midwest Conference, William Woods will join the Heart of America Athletic Conference, as an affiliate member. The Owls will join AMC rival Missouri Baptist University in the Heart South Division. Other opponents in the South Division include Central Methodist University and Missouri Valley. The Heart is the largest football conference in the NAIA, with 14 teams divided across two divisions.

The exciting addition has caught the eye of many athletes across the state. Local athletes Harrison and Polston have chosen to embark on a four-year journey to build a football tradition at William Woods University.

Harrison, a quarterback, noted his excitement to join a program that is close to home.

“I didn’t want to go very far from home which was a big part of my decision. I think I can be one of the better people in the lineup at William Woods and hopefully see more playing time,” said Harrison.

Poltston, a defensive tackle, noted his excitement to be a part of a new program.

“No one has really gone to college from my family, especially for athletics. I chose William Woods because I would love to be a part of a program just getting its start. I can be a part of the foundation of something new,” said Polston.

Harrison and Polston will join William Woods in Fall 2024 as members of the first ever Owls football team.