Air Force Academy Adds Two

Zach Payne, from Hoover-Spain Park, (Ala.), made his college decision earlier this month as he committed to The Air Force Academy. He discusses the decision with ScoutSouth.com.

“Air Force recruited me longer and harder than anyone else,” Zach Payne said from his home in Hoover, (Ala.). “When they first started recruiting me I wasn’t sure about the military academies, but once I got there it was great."

Payne chose Air Force over Arkansas State, Wofford, UT-Chattanooga and Navy. He has also cancelled the remainder of his scheduled visits.

“I really liked all the coaches and the players there. The campus is beautiful - Colorado Springs is a beautiful place. The entire atmosphere, the academics are among the best in the country, and I know I’ll be playing with a lot of good people," he said.

Payne is not the only Spain Park Jaguar to commit to Air Force, as teammate Jeff Benson chose to continue his education, and football career with the Falcons.

“Jeff committed to Air Force, and Daniel Forester (Mountain Brook) also committed to them this week. Daniel and I became pretty good friends while we were practicing for the Alabama/Mississippi all star game. I think it’s going to e fun having those guys with me for the next few years.”

Payne finished the 2007 season with 85 tackles and five sacks while splitting time at defensive end and defensive tackle. He helped lead the Jags to the 6A title game where they lost to Prattville.

ScoutSouth.com congratulates Zach Payne and teammate Jeff Benson as they advance to the next level, and further their education.