Riddle signs with Mary Hardin-Baylor

Troup's Thacher Riddle signs a letter of intent to play football for the Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusaders. Also pictured are Tiger coaches John Eastman (sitting), Jake Jackson and Cal Sparks and Riddle's parents Belinda and Mike.

The "ultimate team player" for the Tigers will suit up for the Crusaders next year as Thacher Riddle has signed to play football for Mary Hardin- Baylor.

Riddle, who has earned first team All-District status the past two years for both offense and defense, will play linebacker for the Division III school.

"Thacher has been a joy to coach for four years and without a doubt will have success at the next level," said John Eastman, athletic director and head coach for the Troup Tigers. "As coaches we are all excited for him to be able to go to the next level and have a chance to play in a very successful program."

Riddle's prospective team enjoyed a perfect 8-0 record in the American Southwest Conference (12-2-0 overall).

During the Tigers' 2007 season had 62 tackles in 2007-08 and averaged 9.14 yards a carry (57-521, seven TDs) as the Tigers' starting fullback.

"Thacher is a great kid that exemplifies ever ything you want in an athlete," said Eastman. "He plays with class and character, but at the same time he has a passion and intensity that is incredibly high."