For thousands of high school football players across the country, National Signing Day is a dream come true for the young student-athletes, as well as their families.

At Zachary High School on Feb. 6, it was no different for three Bronco football players, all seniors, who shared their dreams with families, friends, coaches and teammates, when they signed scholarships to play college football.

The three signees: Chris Taylor, 18, an offensive guard/defensive tackle, will play ball for Tulane University in New Orleans.

Donald Gage, 17, who came from Redemptorist as a junior, played just one year with the Broncos. Gage is a slot receiver who signed with the University of Houston.

Darryl Garner, 18, an outside linebacker, signed with Mississippi College.

Head ZHS Football Coach Neil Weiner said it's always a great day when kids can go on to play ball at the next level.

"Hard work, whether you sign or not, affects who you are. All of you could receive an opportunity like this by doing great things," Coach Weiner said, addressing the entire football team. "But these three young men are blessed with exceptional athletic ability, and their character is outstanding."

Weiner went on to say that Gage, Garner and Taylor are all going to great academic institutions and that their signings are a huge plus for both ZHS and the Zachary community.

Weiner said Garner was a hardworking player with an outstanding academic reputation. He said Taylor is a "gentleman off the field but a nasty guy on the field. He's a blessing to the program."

Finally, Weiner told attendees that Gage made a huge impact on the team in only one year with the Broncos. "He's a great young man who is always lifting up his teammates," said Weiner. "It's great to see them all get their day."

All three Bronco student-athletes thanked their coaches, families and teammates.

"Without my parents, who sacrificed time, energy and money to get me to practices and games, and without God, I couldn't have done this. I play for my parents and God," Taylor said.

"This is as good as it gets! I thank my coaches, family and teammates for a great experience," Gage said.

"I really appreciate my coaches, team and family for all they've done to help me get here," said Garner.

I like to see good kids rewarded for their efforts," ZHS Principal Wes Watts said. "It really is a great day to be a Bronco."