Colony senior earns chance to play college football

PALMER — Gunner Atkin has been waiting for the opportunity to play college football since he was in elementary school. Now the Colony High School senior has his chance.

Surrounded by friends and family Wednesday afternoon, Atkin signed his National Letter of Intent to attend Waldorf University in Forest City, Iowa, and will play for the NAIA Warriors.

“I’m very excited,” Atkin said after he posed for pictures with friends during a ceremony in the Colony High. “I’ve wanted to play since I was an 8-year-old playing MYFA football.”

Atkin, a three-year varsity letterman for the Knights, said he’s always been drawn to football.

“I always enjoyed the hitting, the intensity,” Atkin said.

Atkin will play linebacker at Waldorf.

“I’ve played lineman since I was little, but I’m not the biggest guy,” Atkin said.

Atkin said he considered a handful of schools, but after a friend suggested Waldorf, the Iowa school became the best fit.

“I talked to the coach, and the coach said he liked my film,” Atkin said.

Colony head coach Robbie Nash said he believes Waldorf is a great place for Atkin to continue his football career. Nash also said Atkin’s effort and drive will continue to help him be successful.

“He’s testament to the kids that don’t give up,” Nash said. “He has a great work ethic. He never gives up. He’s the one who leads by example.”

Atkin and the Knights recovered from a 1-4 start in 2019 and advanced to the Division I semifinals. Colony upset top-seeded East Anchorage in the first round of the playoffs.

In addition to football, Atkin has also been active in theatre.

“I’ve been in plays ever since was a little kid,” Atkin said.

In addition to football, Atkin said he will pursue a degree in exercise science.

Waldorf currently has one other Alaskan on the 2020 roster. Lathrop graduate Jordan Smith will be a senior offensive lineman next year. Waldorf finished 7-3 in 2019.

Contact Frontiersman managing editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.