Standout dual sports athlete Kris “Claus” Williams made his decision to play football for Limestone College in SC. Williams signed his letter of intent Friday afternoon surrounded by the support of his friends, family and coaches as he expressed his excitement for this opportunity.

“It’s exciting and I’ve been excited all day today. I’m glad I was able to sign with Limestone. It’s a good fit for me and I can go there and make an impact immediately,” said Williams. “I’m excited to go down there and I’m ready to be there and hopefully one day I can make the league.”

While Williams was the point guard and one of the leaders of the Horses basketball team during there deep run into the state playoffs. His accomplishment on the football field were not overshadowed which earned him his spot on the Limestone roster.

Playing quarterback, he earned over 2000 total yards passing with 30 touchdowns on 102 completions. However, it’s Williams’ defensive talent that drew in Limestone. With 11 total interceptions during his time as a Clinton safety that was more than enough to garner him the same position on a college roster.

One of his many coaches, Aaron Lane, pointed how his growth over the past two years set the tone and got him ready for his future in college.

“Kris is really an incredible player; it’s been a pleasure to coach him. He has grown so much as not just a player but as a person as well, especially in these past two years I’ve got to coach him,” said coach Lane.” I know he’ll do great a Limestone and will continue to make us all proud.”

Williams parents were also there to take in the moment. They shared a few likeminded words, knowing he’ll be all right at Limestone, being so far away.

“It’s a good day for him and it is truly a blessing, it’s been a long road and long time for him to get here. Though he’ll be so far away from home I know he will be fine,” said mother Felicia Boykin.

As great of an athlete that Williams is at both football and basketball curiosity may have some wondering why he choose one over the other which he shed light on.

“I wanted to play basketball to but with football I can show more of my athletic talent. It’s much easier to, basketball is more a mental sport but with football I can just go out there and play. But, I haven’t given up on basketball yet,” said Williams. “I may try out for the basketball team and walk on but we’ll just have to wait and see.”

As always with players committing to college they are labeled as “student athletes” which means their academics are equally important as the sport they play. For Williams he has his sights set on owning his own shoe business and giving back to his community.

“Not sure what I’ll major in, but I know that I want to get into business. I really love shoes so I hope when I get my degree that I can own my own shoe business. When that happens maybe I comeback and give out free shoes to those that are in need here at home,” he said.

In his final statements Williams gave special thanks to his uncles, cousins, grandfather, parents, coaches and all those who helped him along the way. He also gave some insight for those that may be curious about his well know nickname of “Claus,” a name that was shouted many times while wearing his Horses uniform.

“I want to say thanks to those who helped get here I couldn’t have made it here without them. I know I’m going far away from home but I plan to do my thing at Limestone and continue to make them all proud,” said Williams.

“As far as the nickname goes it came from the fact that I was born on Christmas Eve. My granddad gave me the name and it’s stuck with me ever since. Some people still call me Kris, but most people who know me, know me as Claus.”

Kris “Claus” Williams smiles happily with his parents, coaches and principal during his signing to Limestone College. Pictured, from left, are: front row — Felicia Boykin, Kris Williams and Robert Boykin; and back row — Mike Bell, Aaron Lane, Bob Lewis and Steve Miller.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/web1_willsign.jpgKris “Claus” Williams smiles happily with his parents, coaches and principal during his signing to Limestone College. Pictured, from left, are: front row — Felicia Boykin, Kris Williams and Robert Boykin; and back row — Mike Bell, Aaron Lane, Bob Lewis and Steve Miller.
‘Claus’ enjoys Christmas in June

By Michael Hardison

Sports Editor

Reach Michael Hardison at [email protected]. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @SampsonInd.