WEST ORANGE, NJ - West Orange High School football players Saboor Karriem and Jarvis Jones signed with the University of Illinois and the University of Connecticut on Dec. 21, the first opportunity for high school prospects to lock up scholarships and formally sign National Letters of Intent.

Karriem, who received 31 offers, chose Illini for several reasons.

"I wanted to play big-time football," Karriem said, "and I'll have a great team to motivate me. I'll also have the opportunity to earn a great degree."

The cornerback/wide receiver plans to major in Finance and minor in Communication.

Jones, a wide receiver/defensive back, chose UConn for its coaching staff.

"The coaching staff will give me the experience I need as a player to develop, and I'll also be getting a great education."

He will be majoring in Marketing.

Tonight was a great night for West Orange High School and West Orange Football," stated Head Coach Darnell Grant.

"Our young men earned full scholarships through their hard work on the field and in the classroom. West Orange is a launch pad for great student athletes. It is wonderful that we are nationally recognized for our fantastic kids. Jarvis and Saboor are tile models  and examples of what can happen if you work hard and trust the process."  

Saboor Karriem and Jarvis Jones

Karriem and Jones with coaches (L-R) Andrew Roe, Head Coach Darnell Grant, Andrew Mazurek, Abdul Hanks

Front row (L-R) Asst. Superintendent Hayden Moore, Saboor Karriem, Jarvis Jones. (Rear, L-R) Acting Athletic Director Stephan Zichella, Andrew Roe, Head Coach Darnell Grant, Andrew Mazurek, Abdul Hanks, WOHS Principal Oscar Guerrero