BUCKINGHAM – Over the years, when people describe Buckingham County High School senior Tarian Ayers, the word “leader” is one of the first words used.

After leading the Knights to a combined 29-6 record over the last three seasons, Ayers signed a National Letter of Intent to play football at Virginia Military Institute.

Ayers, who led Buckingham to its impressive three-year stretch, signed with the Keydets to play quarterback.

“VMI is a great program with a great history,” said Ayers. “I like the coaches, and I really liked the chemistry, and the bond I know I will develop with my teammates and classmates.

“I was also really impressed with the food.”

While many athletes tend to shy away from the rigors that come with being a freshman at VMI, Ayers was drawn to it.

“I know it's going to be a challenge, but I've always liked a challenge, and I know it's going to build character.”

“One of my goals was to go to a four-year school at the Division I level. I'm the first member of my family to go to college, so it's not only a milestone for me, but for my family as well.”

Ayers' LOI signing ceremony included a number of family members and well-wishers.

“I'm proud that he has kept a strong mind to make it to this day,” said Tarian's mother, Angela, who liked the structure the school offers. “VMI was a great choice. When we went up there for his official visit, it stole my heart. Also, there are some things that I won't have to worry about while he's there that I may have had to worry about if he had gone somewhere else.”

“He's a very strong person,” said Ike Jones, Tarian's father, “and I'm glad he made this decision. Our biggest concern was about his well-being, and he has an opportunity to excel at VMI.”

Ayers chose Virginia Military Institute over William and Mary, Bluefield College, Ferrum and Bridgewater.

“I plan on playing quarterback,” said Tarian Ayers. “They said that they plan on redshirting me, but [in camp] if they feel like I am the man for the job, they'll give me a shot.”

Ayers was an honorable all JRD quarterback selection as a freshman, moved to the second team as a sophomore and was named to the first team as a junior and senior.

He was a second-team All-Region B selection as a junior, and was put on the first team his senior year. He was also named to the Group A All-State Second Team.

Additionally, Ayers has received similar accolades for his play as a defensive back and on special teams.

Ayers has also been cited for his play on the basketball team, making the first team as a sophomore and junior, in addition to being named to the Region B Second Team both seasons.

Ayers knows that he will have to train his body to get used to what he's going to face in the fall.

“I've been preparing myself,” said Ayers. “I've been waking up at 5 a.m. instead of six to get used to it. After basketball season, I'm going to start to train myself like I'm already there, so I can get used to it, and make the transition as easily as possible.”

As Ayers looked around the BCHS library while sitting at the signing table, he saw a television station from Charlottesville and a good mix of older and younger faces that snapped pictures with their cell phones to capture the moment.

“There's a responsibility,” said Ayers. “Especially to the younger ones. I want to let them know that even though you may come from a small school, anything is possible. It takes hard work and determination, but you can get there. You've just got to keep reaching for your goal.”