Burnet’s Ellett-Clark signs NLI to play for McMurry University
CAPTION: Burnet senior Braden Ellett-Clark (seated, middle) is surrounded by his teammates after he signs his intention to play football for McMurry University. Staff photo by Jennifer Fierro
Burnet High School senior Braden Ellett-Clark signed his National Letter of Intent to play football for McMurry University Jan. 26 with family, friends and teammates in attendance.
“When I went on my visit, (head coach Jordan) Neal made it feel like home,” he said. “They’re a big family. It’s a very positive environment.”
Ellett-Clark, who played three positions for the Bulldogs, will be a receiver for the War Hawks.
He transferred to Burnet in the eighth grade.
“It means everything to me,” he said of his time wearing the Kelly green. “Everybody in this school really embraced us and made me feel like one of their own. I want to make them proud.”
His dad, Mike Clark, recalled the transition back then and offered some insight to attendees.
“You always question the process,” he said. “Being around kids and coaching them, what I learned is trust the process. Surround yourselves with good people who have good morals and values. Those people will help you get there. You push each other to great levels. Do the things you need to do and represent your school and community.Trust the process and morals and ethics and everything that goes with it. Hold onto it and embrace it.”
Ellett-Clark was a wide receiver, tight end and cornerback for the Bulldogs.
“He’s football savvy,” head coach Bryan Wood said. “He’s really good at knowing his role and doing stuff correctly.”
Wood noted the the Bulldogs are a close team because the players “bought into” the foundation the coaching staff was installing two years ago. That belief is why Burnet was within one possession of qualifying for the 2022 playoffs.
“Braden bought into it when we got here,” he said. “He was part of a good solid group of guys that bought into the changes and the atmosphere.”
Ellett-Clark, whose mother is Hope Ellett, will major in kinesiology and sports medicine so he can become a coach.
The athlete said he wants to be an example to his three younger brothers “to give them the confidence” to achieve their dreams and goals, too.
Wood said he knows Ellett-Clark will do great at McMurry University.
“He’s a kid who’ll do what you ask him to do,” he said. “I’m proud of the fact he is going to play college football. I can’t wait to see him and holler at the coaches. I know he’ll do a fantastic job representing his mom and dad and everyone associated with him.”
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