Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Morgan Academy golfer Jones Free always dreamed of playing at the University of Alabama.

Free’s dream became reality Thursday as he signed a golf scholarship with the Crimson Tide in Morgan Academy basketball gymnasium.

Free officially signed last week during the start of the NCAA Fall Signing Period, but wanted an official signing party with his parents,William and Callen Free, sister Sarah Lloyd Free, Morgan Academy students and faculty.

“Signing with Alabama feels great, after two years, it’s finally official,” Free said. “It’s been a great journey. I’m happy to where I am.”

Callen and William Free said they’re both proud of their son, who was a Crimson Tide verbal commitment for two years.

“Jones has worked real hard for this, we’re proud of him,” Callie Free said.

“This is a big deal because Jones said one day he was going to play golf at Alabama,” William Free said.

Morgan Academy golf coach Will Pearce said Free’s ability to handle clutch situations make him a great golfer.

“Jones has great focus, a great work ethic and always help the younger golfers on the team,” Pearce said.

Alabama golf coach Jay Seawell said that Free will be a strong addition to the Crimson Tide golf team next year.

“We are very excited to have someone of Jones’ character and ability join our program,” Seawell said.

“He is a winner and he has certainly proven that he is comfortable in pressure situations. We are looking forward to having him as a part of our program.”

Former Morgan Academy golf coach Ira Wagoner said Free showed potential at a young age.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Free had a productive summer. He successfully defended the Selma Country Club Invitational Men’s Golf Tournament title.

Free also won his age group at the Southeastern Junior Golf Tour’s Wynlakes Shootout played on May 28-29 in Montgomery.

Free has enjoyed a stellar prep career at Morgan Academy, leading the Senators to consecutive AISA State titles in 2018 and 2019 and earning low medalist honors.

The Senators are considered favorites to win a AISA state crown next spring.