Receiving a college football scholarship is a significant milestone for any athlete. Luke Langford, a defensive back from Liberty Christian High School in Argyle, Texas, received an offer from the United States Military Academy at West Point on June 17.
Two days later, he committed to the Black Knights on June 19. Sports Madness caught up with him to discuss his commitment.
"I've always had a deep respect for our nation's military and anyone willing to serve this country. My grandfather served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and those values of discipline, respect, and service were passed down to my dad and then to me. That's how I was raised. I truly feel like the stars aligned—this is the path God has laid out for me, and I'm trusting it. The opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself while playing the game I love is a huge honor," Langford said of his commitment.
He accepted his offer from the Black Knights on June 17, having been in contact with inside linebacker coach Justin Weaver since April and developing a strong relationship with him.
"I've been in constant contact with Coach Juice since April. He actually came out to Liberty Christian, and from day one, we communicated well. At the TCU Mega Camp, he got to see me compete in person, and from there, things really picked up. That's when the conversation around a possible offer and commitment got a lot more serious. It's been an awesome process, and I've really appreciated how genuine he's been the whole way through. I have a great relationship with Coach Juice, who's been my main recruiter. We talk regularly and have built a strong connection."
Langford has not yet taken his official visit to West Point, but he is planning to go there soon for an unofficial visit before scheduling an official visit.
"I haven't taken my official visit yet, but I'm planning to go up with my family for an unofficial visit in the next couple of weeks. After that, I'll return for my official. I can't wait to get on campus and experience everything firsthand. West Point has always been one of those schools on my shortlist—just a place that stands out because of its history, purpose, and culture.
He is also eager to meet the Black Knights coaching staff, as he has only spoken with some through texts. Langford did, however, receive a call from head coach Jeff Monken after announcing his commitment.
"Coach Monken reached out to me the night I committed. He welcomed me to the Brotherhood and said he was really excited about my decision to join Army Football, which meant a lot. I haven't met him in person yet, but I'm definitely looking forward to that moment. I've also been texting back and forth with some of the other coaches, but I haven't had the chance to meet all of them in person. I'm looking forward to building those relationships further on my upcoming visits."
Last season, Liberty Christian won the TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) Division I state championship. Langford, who transferred from Southlake Carroll in May, is excited about the upcoming season and says the Warriors are looking strong.
"The off-season has been going great. We've had a strong focus on development—both in the weight room and on the field. Our team is locked in, and the chemistry is better than ever. Liberty Christian is looking really strong heading into the season. We've got a tight brotherhood, and everyone's bought in. We're excited to compete."