In an era where the transfer portal can make it difficult to garner Football Bowl Division scholarship offers, Abilene High coach Mike Fullen encourages his athletes to take advantage of opportunities that arise for them.

On Wednesday, AHS wide receiver Ryland Bradford finalized his decision and signed an offer with the University of Texas-El Paso — accepting a full ride to join coach Scotty Waldren’s squad.

When asked what led to choosing UTEP, Bradford was quick to touch on the relationships he built with the Miners coaching staff.