It was a big day for three local student-athletes who turned their dreams into reality in front of family, teammates, and friends, as Quentin Brooks (Bethesda Academy), Maya Swinson (Islands High), and Jay'den Sutton (Islands High) officially signed letters of intent to continue their athletic and academic journeys at the college level.
Quentin Brooks – Golf, Savannah State University
Bethesda Academy Athletic Director Antwain Turner kicked off the signing ceremony, stating that history was made at Bethesda Academy on Wednesday morning. Senior golfer Quentin Brooks became the first Blazer in school history to sign a college golf scholarship. Brooks will stay close to home, joining the Savannah State University men's golf team.
Brooks honed his skills through the First Tee of Savannah program and began playing at Bacon Park Golf Course as a kid. His commitment to the sport and his love for competition helped shape his dream to play at the next level.
"Savannah State just felt like the right place," said Brooks. "It's one of the best HBCUs around, and I know I can grow there as a student and an athlete."
He praised Bethesda's community, calling the campus, staff, and students "a real family." His advice to young golfers was meaningful but straightforward: "Don't be afraid to try something new. Find a swing that works for you, and just have fun."
Maya Swenson – Volleyball, Belmont Abbey College
Islands High School volleyball standout Maya Swenson is headed to Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina to continue her career as a libero. Known for her relentless defense, Swenson recorded 380 digs, 509 serve receives, and 64 aces her senior season.
Maya was named Region 3-3A Defensive Player of the Year, earned multiple All-Region and team MVP honors, and was nominated for Coastal Empire Player of the Year. In club volleyball, she consistently competed in the gold division and qualified for nationals two years in a row.
Swinson also excelled in the classroom, maintaining a 3.8 GPA, and plans to pursue a career in physical therapy.
"When I visited Belmont Abbey, the coach was so welcoming and the team chemistry was great," Swenson said. "It felt like the perfect place for me."
Reflecting on her journey, she said, "When I first came to Islands, I was shy. Coach Decker helped me build confidence and pushed me to believe in myself."
Her advice to younger players: "It's okay to fail. If you want to play at the next level, work hard. It's all worth it in the end."
Jay'Den Sutton – Football, Central Georgia Technical College
Islands High senior Jay'Den Sutton, a two-way football standout, signed with Central Georgia Technical College in Warner Robins. Sutton plans to play wide receiver at the junior college level and later transfer to a Division I program.
As a senior, he totaled 24 catches for 240 yards and a touchdown, added 178 rushing yards and another score, and picked off four passes on defense. Sutton stated he also holds the record for all-time receptions at Islands.
"It just felt like home," Sutton said of CGTC. "The coaches showed me around and really made me feel welcome."
Despite challenging seasons with limited wins, Sutton remained committed and said the adversity helped him grow. "I've learned to stay strong when things get tough. I'll take that with me to college."
Sutton encouraged young players to outwork the competition. "You've got to put in work when no one's watching—late nights, early mornings. That's what it takes."
These signings mark more than personal milestones, representing years of hard work, sacrifice, and belief. For Brooks, Swinson, and Sutton, the journey doesn't end here—it's only just beginning.
PHOTO CREDIT: Prep Sports Report
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