Back in the pioneer days of our nation, the cry to the pioneers was “Go West, young man, go West”!

Big Charleston Lewis responded to the call Feb 3rd, 2010 at the Belton High School athletic field house. The son of Charlie and Ronda Lewis, selected All-District 12-5A in both football and academics, signed a letter of intent to attend and play football at West Texas A&M next fall. The senior defensive lineman played a large part in the success of the District 12-5A champion Tiger football team and is looking forward to doing the same for the NCAA Division II Buffaloes.

“I chose West Texas A&M because its program is so similar to ours (at Belton),” explained Charleston. “It was a real easy pick.” He will receive a partial scholarship as a freshman for both athletics and academics.

Coach Don Cartel picked Lewis up for his official visit to the campus in Canyon, south of Amarillo and Charleston said that he (Cartel) reminded him of Big Red head coach Rodney Southern.

The 6’2, 225 lb senior’s father, Tiger coach Charlie Lewis, agreed with his decision. “I think it’s a good fit for Charleston,” he commented. “He had an opportunity to go up and see the things they’re doing and it’s kind of a ‘mirror-image’ of what we’re doing here in Belton. He was very pleased with the conditioning coach, the facilities and what they’re trying to do with the program. He felt he could actually be an asset to them and help them compete and win some championships. He’s very excited about it and we are, too.”

Ronda Lewis, the future Buffalo’s mother, said: “I’ll miss him but it’s close enough to get there (Canyon, TX). I’ll miss him around home but I’m happy for him. He’s worked so hard.”

Charleston’s little sister, Chloe, admitted she will miss big brother a lot. The 14-year old is an eighth grader at  Bonham Middle School in Temple, where she plays basketball, volleyball, and runs but her main sport is shotput and discus.

West Texas A&m has had a recent run of success with playoff appearances in 2006-2008. Lewis, a District 12-5A first team defensive end who recorded 36 tackles last season, should be a huge addition to the Buffaloes squad.

 “Obviously, the opportunity that Charleston has to play football at the next level will be big for him,”  stated BISD Athletic Director Southern. “We’re definitely going to miss his presence here for the last 2-1/2 years but he is moving on to bigger and better things. Charleston has really matured in our program and hopefully he will continue to make some more at the next level.”

His arrival at college will be sort of a homecoming for Lewis. His former workout partner at Belton, linebacker Kyle Voss, just completed his freshman season and they will be joining up again on defense. In addition, Temple’s varsity fullback Derrick Davis, Will Wright from Copperas Cove and Salado’s Caleb Hayslip are also headed to West Texas A&M in the fall.

After the official signing ceremony, an emotional Lewis thanked everyone for being there, pointing out several by name, saying “I guess you cry because you’re so happy.” The young man referred to as the team “Chaplain” then led the group in a prayer.

He said the little Panhandle town reminded him of Belton ---”But, I’ll miss the REAL Belton a lot!”