The senior defensive back and offensive lineman want to be known for building a pipeline connection from Southwest Minnesota State to Palm Beach County. They will be playing college football together for the next few years, and they want to represent our area in the best way possible.

Lightbourne (5-foot-9, 155 pounds) was the first one to go with the Mustangs, as he pledged his verbal commitment to the Division II school on Jan. 3.

“I just felt like it was the right move to make financially,” Lightbourne said. “I also gained a good relationship with a couple of players and coaches.”

Hernandez (6-foot-3, 265 pounds) followed suit on Jan. 23.

“I think it’s great he decided to take the same route,” Lightbourne said. “We built a good bond over the past season. We’re hoping to build an even greater bond through these next 4-5 years in Minnesota.”

Hernandez spoke on his college football decision.

“I had insights from Obj,” said Hernandez, who finished his senior season as our 561 Public First Team Offense pick, our No. 3-ranked offensive lineman, and our No. 44 overall player in Palm Beach County. “He told me how it was up there.”

Hernandez had more to say about the Marshall, Minn.-based school.

“It’s a place to call home,” Hernandez said. “The coaches take pride in everything they do. It’s a
brotherhood.”

Being loved and appreciated means a lot to Hernandez. That feeling was something he cherished throughout his senior season at Palm Beach Lakes.

“I’m a big loyalty guy and big on respect,” Hernandez said. “My teammates knew when it came down to it. I will be the last man standing for them. Those are my brothers, and the trust that I’ve built up with them helped me a lot my senior year. I love the Palm Beach Lakes coaching staff. In my opinion, they are the best in Palm Beach County because they want the best for their athletes.”

PHOTO CREDITS: Al Shipman and SMSU Football