Aaron Carter Signs Scholarship with Bethel University

MCHS Senior Aaron Carter has signed a scholarship offer with Bethel University. He is slated to play football next fall for the west Tennessee school.

Aaron signed a letter of intent at Macon County High School’s auditorium. Many of his fellow players, family, friends and coaches were on hand for the event.

Bethel University is a Christian institute of higher learning with its main campus located in McKenzie, TN. It was founded in 1842 and was affiliated with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The school has satellite campuses in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Jackson, and Clarksville, boasting an enrollment of over 5,200 students.

The university has competed in the Mid-South Conference in the NAIA. They finished last season with an overall record of 9-4 and next season will be competing in the Southern States Athletic Conference. Bethel’s colors are purple and gold and their mascot is the Wildcat.

Defensive Backs coach Marlon Watson was on hand for the signing. He indicated, “We had been recruiting a player of (former Macon player and coach) Coach Chad Watson and saw film on Aaron.” “Immediately we knew that he could make a difference in our program.” Carter is being recruited as a defensive back or possible outside linebacker after recording over 35 tackles last season and being named All-District 9-AA last year.

Mother Crystal Carter noted, “We always encouraged Aaron to have faith and to be a good example. It was always important to us that he didn’t forget what it is like to be the underclassman and be an example for younger players.” As with most cycles in life, Aaron now goes from being a big fish in a little pond, back to a little fish in a big pond.

After sitting behind the all-time leader in passing yards at MCHS, it would have been hard to get discouraged. “The thing that I will remember most about Aaron’s playing days is that he never gave up and he always did his best, even through the tough times,” remarked Crystal.

Aaron was contacted by a number of schools to play football. Union, Tusculum College, Tennessee Tech, UT-Martin, Eastern Kentucky, Cumberland, and several schools in North Carolina showed an interest in Aaron coming to their school.

“I decided to choose Bethel because it seemed like it was a better fit for me. I looked at some other schools but I really liked the facilities and the small college atmosphere there,” said Aaron. It didn’t hurt that the Wildcats have won their conference the last two years and have a great program.

Aaron’s dad, Anthony, coached his son in one sport or another since he was eight years old. Anthony taught Aaron to be a self-motivator. “I tried to tell him that when others tell him he can’t, know that you can.” Anthony’s most memorable moment with his son was during one of Aaron’s first hunting trips and being able to share that parent-child bond.

“My dad has been the biggest influence in my life. He has always made me be better and work harder and for that I am thankful.” Aaron also stressed the importance of academics for the student who wishes to become a collegiate athlete. “You get a scholarship in exchange for an education. Grades are important and they really look at that.” Carter plans on focusing on Sports Medicine at Bethel.

Congratulations to Aaron Carter and we wish him the best of luck at Bethel University.