North Carolina Lightning Announce 2026 Tryouts for High School Grads and Transfer Athletes
Admin User
February 3, 2026
Gulf Shores, Alabama / CRWE Press Release / February 4, 2026 — The Alabama Rays football program is proud to announce a highly successful Official Visit and Signing Day, highlighted by an incredible turnout from prospective student-athletes and their families.
The event marked a major milestone for the program, as roster spots are already filling rapidly following strong interest from players across the region. The Alabama Rays staff was thrilled to welcome recruits, families, and community members for a powerful day focused on opportunity, development, and the future of Rays football.
The Alabama Rays extend sincere gratitude to One Club Gulf Shores for generously sponsoring the event and hosting the visit. Special thanks also go to the One Club staff for their outstanding hospitality and professionalism, helping create a welcoming environment for every guest.
“We are extremely grateful for the overwhelming support we received,” said Head Coach Matthew Lipham. “From our venue partners to our coaching staff, families, and community — this day truly showed what happens when people come together to invest in young men and their futures.”
The program also recognizes and appreciates its coaching staff, including Offensive Coordinator Kamryn Pettway and Defensive Coordinator Vic Koenning, whose experience and leadership continue to attract motivated athletes looking to develop on and off the field.
Most importantly, the Alabama Rays thank the families who took time out of their lives to attend the visit and support their players' next steps. Their commitment and belief in the program play a vital role in helping student-athletes pursue their goals.
The organization is equally grateful to the Gulf Shores community for embracing the team and showing continued support as the Rays establish roots locally.
With momentum building and roster spots filling quickly, the Alabama Rays look forward to an exciting season and continued growth within the community.
About the Alabama Rays
The Alabama Rays are a National Junior College Prep football program based in Gulf Shores, Alabama, dedicated to developing student-athletes through elite coaching, academic support, and character-driven leadership while providing opportunities to advance to the next level.
The NJCP Football League is a national platform for college prep athletes, offering high-level competition, exposure to college scouts, and a holistic development model that emphasizes education, leadership, and community service. With East and West Coast divisions culminating in the NJCP National Championship, the league is redefining what it means to build a legacy through sport.
To learn more about NJCP's community service initiatives or to become a community partner, visit www.njcpfootball.com.
Contact: National Junior College Prep Football League
(435) 922 3335
Source: NJCP Football