By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

The holder of Pelham High School’s single-season rushing record will continue his journey at the next level after signing a football scholarship with Faulkner University on March 15.

PHS fullback Eli Beall inked with the university during a ceremony in the school’s cafeteria as he was surrounded by his mother, Becky, father, Larry, and sisters, Taylor, Chelsea and Meaghan.

Dozens of Beall’s teammates, coaches, family members and friends also packed the cafeteria during the ceremony.

Beall, who played with the Panthers for four years, finished his senior season with more than 1,400 rushing yards, setting the school’s single-season record. PHS head football coach Brett Burnett said Beall played a crucial role in the team’s run-heavy 2012 offensive scheme.

“He is one of the finest men I’ve ever been around,” Burnett said. “He’s one of the finest Christian young men I know. He is a positive role model for all our kids.”

Beall said he chose the Montgomery-based Faulkner University after enjoying the school’s atmosphere during a campus visit.

“I want to thank all my teammates for always believing in me,” Beall said during the signing.