Hancock Football's Mediano Signs with University of North Alabama

Allan Hancock College tight end Ryan Mediano has signed a National Letter of Intent with the University of North Alabama, a NCAA Division II program. The Lions compete in the Gulf South Conference.

"I am thrilled to be moving on to North Alabama," said Mediano, who was a Second Team All-Conference selection during the 2014 season. "I came to Hancock for an opportunity to play at the next level and now I am. I am so grateful."

The college hosted a signing ceremony for Mediano on Tuesday afternoon inside Joe White Memorial Gymnasium.

During the 2014 season, the six-foot-three, 245 pound sophomore caught 17 passes for 136 yards and one touchdown for Hancock. His freshman season, he spent time at tight end and on the Bulldogs' offensive line. He hauled in nine receptions for 78 yards and one touchdown.

"Ryan really understands the game and has the tools to earn a starting spot in any program," said Hancock head coach Kris Dutra. "He was one of our best all-around athletes. We will miss him, but know he will represent Hancock and continue to make the Bulldog family proud."

Mediano plans to major in nursing in hopes of becoming a surgical nurse.

North Alabama is coming off a 9-2 campaign that included a share of the GSC title for the second straight year. The Lions ended ranked No. 16 in the season's final NCAA Division II poll under head coach Bobby Wallace, who owns the most wins in conference history. The Lions have advanced to the NCAA Division II playoffs in 10 of the last 12 years.

"I had never been to the south before until I visited the campus two weeks ago," said Mediano, a Santa Maria native. "I loved the campus, the coaches and felt a great bond with the team."

UNA is the only team to win three consecutive football national championships at the NCAA Division II level, which it accomplished in 1993-1995 under Wallace. The Lions' streak of 27 consecutive weeks at the top of the Division II polls also comprise the longest stretch of consecutive number one rankings in football in NCAA history at any level.

Mediano will have a chance to compete against former Hancock wide receiver Shane Henderson, who will be a senior in the 2015 season at Valdosta State. UAN and Valdosta State are both members of the Gulf South Conference. Henderson owns nearly every one of Hancock's receiving records. Last fall for Valdosta State, Henderson made 34 receptions for 497 yards for a team-high eight touchdowns.

"I am really looking forward to playing against Shane and think it will be a unique opportunity to be reunited with him at the next level," he added.