USJ's Edwards commits to Memphis

His goal-scoring ability makes University School of Jackson junior Jack Edwards tough to stop in the attacking third, but his skill on the ball has made USJ coach Paul Conway used Edwards in the midfield and on defense.

Edwards will have the ability to take his full skill set to the college level after he decided Thursday to commit to play NCAA Division I soccer at the University of Memphis.

"It is close to home," Edwards said. "I got to meet the team, and they were super nice and super welcoming. The coaches were great as well."

Edwards chose Memphis over East Tennessee State University and University of Alabama-Birmingham.

"I met one of the assistant coaches about a year ago," Edwards said. "We kept in contact after that, and about three weeks ago, they gave me an offer."

Edwards has helped this year's Bruin team into a three-way tie for first place in the district after a 3-2 victory over St. George's earlier this week. He has nine goals and seven assists so far this season.

So with still over a season to play for USJ, making this decision gives him the ability to focus on the end of his high school career.

"It is a relief to have this over as a junior," Edwards said. "I feel like this was the right decision for me."

Edwards scored 21 goals and added 12 assists last season as a sophomore before he tore his ACL against Sacred Heart during the regular season.

"It is a great feeling to go through that and come back stronger than I was," Edwards said. "My coaches have helped me bring my confidence back."

Reach Michael Odom at michodom@jacksonsun.com or 731-425-9754. Follow him on Twitter @JSWriterMichael.