Weaverville – Two North Buncombe High School students are playing soccer together at the next level. Seniors Jarib (JP) Pott and Crishawn Mills signed to Mars Hill the past two weeks.
Mills and Pott were both First Team WMAC All-Conference selections. They were also team captains this past season.
Jarib Pott
Jarib is a third-year varsity soccer starter for North Buncombe and a student at Nesbitt Discovery Academy (NDA). The midfielder also played for Highland Football Club. Jarib committed to play at Mars Hill University on Friday, April 23 and was the first male collegiate signing at NDA. Jarib scored seven goals this season and three assists. He is the son of Heather and Jeff Pott.
“He was an integral part of the team helping the team in defense at the start of the season and transitioned into an outside midfielder when Crishawn Mills returned to the team from injury. His impact was immediately felt as he immediately helped the team become more dangerous in attack,” says NB coach Thorsten Path.
Jarib’s parents are proud of his success and look forward to watching him play the next four years at the collegiate level.
“Jarib’s Dad and I are very proud of his hard work and accomplishments both academically and athletically. We are grateful for the teachers and coaches he has had here at WPS, WVES, NWR, NBMS, and then at Nesbitt Discovery Academy. We’re excited that he chose to further his education at Mars Hill, and we look forward to cheering on the Lions!” says mother Heather Pott.
Jarib is looking forward to playing with familiar faces on the Mars Hill team.
“I am excited for the opportunity to play collegiate soccer and especially to train under the SAC Coach of the year, Greg Munn. I am excited to play with some of my friends from Club and North Buncombe High. I am looking forward to being part of a team with players from all over the world. Mars Hill University provides the opportunity to play the sport I love and get a great education. I am looking forward to being a Lion!” says Jarib Pott.
Crishawn Mills
Senior Crishawn Mills is also staying close to home and following his soccer dreams. Crishawn signed to Mars Hill University on Friday, May 14. The midfielder and defender is the son of Jackie Mills.
The captain is a two-year varsity starter. His recruitment begun while playing in the off-season for Highland Football Club.
“Crishawn came into the season injured and missed the first five games, but once he returned, he solidified our back line. His presence led our team to play with more confidence. His leadership helped groom our youthful defensive unit,” Path says.
Crishawn’s family is excited for his next step in his academic and athletic career.
“Crishawn thought he would never be more excited than being selected as captain of his local travel team with the Highland Football Club (HFC). Then after being chosen as a starting varsity player his freshman year of high school at North Buncombe and earning the respect of his coaches and peers, he later became captain and an outstanding leader for the Black Hawks. Nothing has ever held Crishawn back and now he will take the next step in his journey. He’s again, never been more excited and proud to become a part of the Mars Hill University Lions soccer program!” says mother Jackie Mills.