Wesley Pierce signs with East Stroudsburg

WEST MILFORD — West Milford Highlanders football running and defensive back, Wesley Pierce, has signed a letter of intent to play football for East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania.

“I look forward to new competition,” said Wesley on Wednesday at the signing. He plans to major in sports management.

East Stroudsburg is a division II football program in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. The Warriors were 5-5 last season.

Wesley recalled his best moment playing with the Highlanders. It was the game against Weequahic when he ran 85 yards, which helped the Highlanders score the game-winning touchdown. Wesley holds several records and honors in West Milford sports for both football and track.

His parents, Kathy and Todd Pierce, looked on proudly as the youngest of their four children signed his letter.

“We’re very proud of Wesley,” they said.

Wesley’s advice to younger players: “Keep working hard.”

Wesley Pierce’s football honors and stats

Second team Big North All-Conference Player 2012

2011 and 2012 Honorable Mention All-County

Rushed 81 times for 451 yards (5.6 yards per carry) with one touchdown

Longest run was an eventual game winning 85 yards against Weequahic

At receiver: 18 catches for 249 yards

As a returner: four punt returns for 54 yards and eight kick-off returns for 81 yards

Total all-purpose yards this season: 835

- Patricia Keller