Tyler Adams, a senior at Buffalo High School, signed a letter of intent with Sam Houston State University to compete in track and field on National Signing Day on Wednesday. In addition to running in decathlons, which consist of 10 track and field events, Adams will pursue a degree in Computer Engineering.

Adams, who turns 18 on February 11th, will receive a $7,000 scholarship each semester for running track for the Bearcats. This amount covers approximately 75% of his college expenses.

“I am proud of Tyler for pursuing a career in track at the college level and pursuing a college education,” coach Clay Hodges said. “His work ethic and attitude towards athletics and academics have led him to this point, and this should be the standard by which all Buffalo Bison athletes should follow to pursue their goals to become college athletes.”

Tyler began competing in track and field events as a seventh grader, and said his years of dedication and practice have paid off for him.

“I am really excited about this opportunity,” Adams said. “Sam Houston just came to me with this track deal and I took it.”

Adams has attended school here since he was five years old except for his sophomore year when he attended Fairfield High School. At Fairfield, Tyler competed in the state high jump competition and grabbed third place. He returned to start his junior year as a Bison and competed in hurdle, finishing fifth.

As a junior, Adams also competed in the high jump competition in the Texas Relays, which consists of the top 25 competitors in the state of Texas. He garnered second place.

Adams has been in the Elite 8 on the national level the past two years as well for high jump. Tyler’s best jump is 6’ 10”, which he has cleared on numerous occasions.

“Tyler’s athletic ability is way above average for any high school athlete on any level,” Hodges said. “His mark for a 6’10” high jump was one of the highest in the state of Texas in all divisions (1a-5a) last year.”

Track is not the only sport for Adams; he has played four years of varsity basketball and two years of varsity football, with all-district honors in both. At SHSU, though, his focus will be on track.

“Tyler has made Buffalo proud,” Hodges said. “I am sure he will make Sam Houston State University proud.”