When Tyler Walker signed to play football with Lindenwood University at 1:07 on Feb. 6, the CHS senior attained the dream that he has been working towards for his entire high school career.

A four year varsity starter, Walker has been a presence both on and off the football field. Over the course of his high school career, Walker excelled at running back and safety. By the end of his senior season, Walker’s work had payed off, as he led the Greyhounds to a district title and was named to the All Metro first defense team.

Walker’s dream of playing football fully materialized when he first arrived at CHS.

“After my freshman year … I knew that I was going to be committed to football and that’s where my future led,” Walker said.

Assistant football coach Kurt Leopold praised Walker’s work ethic.

“Tyler has worked very hard so he deserves all the credit here.”

The crowd of teammates and friends who attended Walker’s signing serve as a testament to the relationships that the football program has created.

“I thought it was really exciting and I am happy for him and I wish him the best of luck,” senior Aaron Adams said.

Walker also noted that football has dramatically shaped his experience at CHS. “My friend section … is very diverse. Football has brought me across many different types of people,” he said.

Although Walker received offers from several colleges, he decided that Lindenwood University was the most appropriate choice.

“I knew they had a great football program. When I went there, they had a lot of unity, and that’s what I liked. [Also,] I was close to home, so I didn’t have to worry about transportation and getting back and forth.”

As he sat in the Greyhound Room at CHS surrounded by friends, family and coaches, Walker expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped him reach his ultimate goal, along with the importance of determination.

“School, working out, football,” he said, “It’s really paying off right about now.”