One of the most versatile athletes on the 2009 Screven County Gamecock football team, Ed Burns has signed a letter of intent to continue his playing career with the Elon University Phoenix of the Southern Conference. 
The signing took place in the high school media center Wednesday afternoon.
“I chose Elon after visiting numerous times,” Burns said. “After the visits and meeting the coaches and the team, I found myself very comfortable with them. I kept having the feeling that this was the place for me. I also think that it is a great school where I can get a great education.”
Burns, who was named to several all-area teams and was recently honored at the SCHS football banquet, began 2009 as the starting quarterback and ended up at his usual secondary position in addition to playing running back and wide receiver. He led the Roosters in receiving, was fourth in rushing, and led the team in interceptions, punt and kickoff returns and all purpose yardage.
“Ed was barely over 100 pounds and needed quite a bit of development in the strength category when he came to us in the ninth grade,” said outgoing Gamecock football mentor Pat Collins. “He worked very hard in the weight room and it has truly helped him.”
At Elon, Burns hopes to see some playing time.
“Elon lost an All-American and All-Conference corner Karlos Sullivan,” Burns said. “Because of injury there isn’t much depth. I probably won’t be red-shirted, but it is also based on my performance once I get there.”
Echoing a comment that he also said about Murphy Frankhouser, who signed with Presbyterian College Wednesday, Collins emphasized that Burns always shared with his players.
“Three things are necessary to obtain dreams such as these young men continuing their football careers,” Collins said. “Those things are character, grades and ability. They both took full advantage to maximize their opportunity by having great character and exceptional grades. I am certainly very proud.”
Planning to major in media arts and entertainment, Burns said he also received calls from Georgia Southern, Georgia State, Furman and Winston-Salem State.
“I just want to thank my family and friends for supporting me since I was 8 and playing rec ball,” Burns said. “I would also like to thank everyone from my coaches to the teachers and booster members.”
Elon will visit Georgia Southern in Statesboro Sept. 25 this fall for a Southern Conference contest. Elon has defeated GSU three consecutive years.
The Phoenix season will open Sept. 4 at ACC foe Duke.