Former Andalusia High School standout running back, Jamal Hourel, announced on Wednesday night that he would attending Troy University to further is academic and football career.

“I’m extremely blessed to have the opportunity,” Hourel said. “I just got on my knees and thanked God for giving me this chance with everything that is going on.”

Troy began showing interest in Hourel after he led that entire state in rushing during his junior season, but injuries kept him sidelined for most of his senior season and the offers he received were mostly pulled.

“It wasn’t a good feeling when I didn’t think I was going to be able to play D1 football,” Hourel said. “I knew I wanted to play D1. When Troy said they wanted me back, I just hit my knees and thanked God. He has blessed me so much and I’m not going to let the opportunity go to waste.”

Hourel said he learned about the Trojans’ renewed interest in him when Andalusia was in Troy for the Neal Brown Camp on Tuesday.

“Coach (Trent) Taylor called me on Tuesday and said that the Troy coaches were trying to get in touch with me and wanted me to call them,” Hourel said. “I called them Tuesday night and they asked me to come up on Wednesday. As soon as I walked in the door, they made me and my girlfriend feel welcome. They felt like family and Troy just felt like home. I was so relieved when they told me that they wanted me back.”

Hourel said one thing he looks forward to is finally being able to team up with Opp graduate Orlando Lacey.

“Orlando has been my best friend since our pee wee days,” Hourel said. “We have been wanting to play on the same team for a long time, and now I’m just ready to get out there on the field with him and win some championships.

In his first year, Hourel said the Trojans will redshirt him.

“I’m going to redshirt this season,” Hourel said. “I will just focus on my academics and getting bigger, faster and stronger.”