Hereford running back Lonnie Liggins, who helped the Bulls reach the 3A state final, has made a commitment to the United States Military Academy, his father, Ray Charles, confirmed today.

Army coach Stan Brock visited Liggins' home last night to get the commitment from the All-Metro first-team selection and Baltimore County Offensive Player of the Year.

"The facilities at West Point are the best, I think, in the country," Charles said. "As a parent, what more can you ask for? I don't have to work about him going there, and West Point seemed like the best fit."

Charles said that Brock had developed a great personal relationship with Liggins throughout the recruiting process. Coming to the family's home to get the commitment sealed the deal.

"Coach Brock seems to be the man best suited to help my son reach his potential as a human being and a football player," Charles said.

Indiana, Ball State and West Virginia also made pushes for Liggins, according to Charles.

West Point was always the favorite, though.

"Lonnie had his mind made up all along, but he wanted to hold out until he couldn't hold out anymore," Charles said. "They wanted him and proved it with the way they recruited him."

- Stefen Lovelace