Prater, from Fannin County, Ga., has family in Hiwassee Dam community
Blue Ridge, Ga. – Zechariah “Zech” Prater’s family, friends and coaches gathered at the Fannin County High School cafeteria on April 12 to witness Prater signing his letter of intent to Charleston Southern University, making him the first Fannin County High runner to sign with a Division I school.
Prater’s hard work and commitment to track and field were not only apparent through the many medals and awards that laid across the signing table, but through echoes of praises from coaches and school leaders.
Prater has been a track and field athlete for four years at Fannin County High and was praised by Principal Scott Ramsey.
“What you do takes a lot of stamina and a lot of work … I’m very proud of you and the work you have put in,” Ramsey said. He also thanked the young athlete’s family for the support they have shown and for the coaches and their hard work.
Head coach Miranda Roof echoed Ramsey’s congratulations.
“There is no one more deserving of this opportunity … Zech is one of the most dedicated, hardworking and disciplined athletes I’ve had the honor and privilege to coach,” she said. “He helped set the bar for the Fannin County High School boys cross country and long distance running.”
Coach Suzianne Pass added, “From day one, I’ve enjoyed watching you run. Zech, you have always been humble, you’ve always been dedicated … no one has seen you besides dad put in the hours, the miles, the heat, the rain, the cold … you put Fannin County cross country on the map.”
Dr. Lucas Roof described Prater as the most dedicated, humble, hard working and disciplined athlete he has had the privilege to coach.
“We have been reminded recently of how short and precious life is,” Roof said. “I truly beg each of you to get the most out of your God-given talents on a daily basis because you will not get that time back.”
Each coach who spoke mentioned that not only does it take the athlete, but it takes the family to help an athlete be successful.
Prater has family in the Hiwassee Dam area.