GULF SHORES – Gulf Shores Dolphins standout pitcher Collin Blankenship moved one step closer to his college career on Tuesday morning when, surrounded by coaches, teammates, students and his parents, the 6-foot-3 senior signed a letter of intent to play for the University of South Alabama Jaguars.

“On behalf of Gulf Shores High School, we say congratulations,” said Assistant Principal Mark Glassford during the ceremony that took place in the school library. “This is a special day for Collin, but it is also a special day for Gulf Shores High School because this student shows that when you do good things, and you have good grades like a 3.4 GPA in advanced classes, and when you have success on the field and you do all the things you are suppose to, it shows and you get rewarded.”

Dr. Ernie Rosado, principal at the high school, shared similar feelings.

“Collin has been doing the right things. Taking care of the details. That is our motto here, our objective and our goal. Do the right thing,” Rosado said. “I can’t wait to go see Collin play for the Jaguars.  It’s close and we can drive over there. Congratulations to you and to your family.”

Blankenship, who throws in the 90 MPH range, had 78 strikeouts last season, along with hitting .369, 39 RBIs, and 44 homeruns. He chose USA over UAB, Troy and several other schools who were interested.

The baseball coach at Gulf Shores is Donnie Spohn.