Posted: Dec 21, 2015

Hornsby and Isbell Are First Owls to Sign

Sophomore Justin Hornsby and freshman Daijohn Isbell are the first two Owls from the 2015 football team to sign scholarship offers.

Glendora, CA -- Citrus College sophomore defensive end Justin Hornsby and freshman defensive back Daijohn Isbell became the first Owl football players from the 2015 squad to sign scholarship offers late last week. Hornsby inked with NCAA DI FCS Indiana State University, while Isbell signed with NCAA DII powerhouse Valdosta State University.

Hornsby, who prepped at nearby West Covina High School, appeared in 12 total games as an Owl, appearing in just four in an injury shortened season as a freshman, before playing in eight of ten as a sophomore. In his sophomore campaign Hornsby had 28 tackles, including 5 tackles for a loss, 4 sacks, and a forced fumble.

"The coaches at Indiana State were great, the facilities were great, and the vibe I got when I was there, it felt like home, somewhere where I could spend the next two years of my life," Hornsby said. "Citrus was a big stepping stone for me. The coaches helped me out a lot with recruiting, and made me into a better player than can compete at the Division I level."

Isbell sat out the 2014 season with an injury before making his debut this past season as a freshman. Isbell started all 10 games for the Owls, recording 48 total tackles, two interceptions, and a team leading seven pass break-ups. For his efforts, Isbell was named a 2nd-team All-SCFA Central League defender.

"I felt like Valdosta was the best fit for me. The coaches gave off the impression that they want to win, and they are going to do all they can to get the best out of me, and help me reach my potential," Isbell said. "Citrus gave me the opportunity and chance to get to this point. I had to battle through adversity here, not being able to play my first year. [Defensive Coordinator] Coach [Eddie] Pacheco and [Defensive Backs] Coach [Mario] Franklin kept believing in me through all that time. It helped propel me to the four-year level and I'm thankful for that."

"The Citrus College Football mission continues to be and always will be about matriculating our student-athletes to four-year universities," said Citrus College Head Football Coach Ron Ponciano. "Justin Hornsby and Daijohn Isbell are two fine young men, who will continue to work hard and succeed at the next level, while doing so in a way that will make the program proud."