CRESTLINE — Carter Jones had a dream of playing college football.

That dream came true last week when he signed a letter of intent last week to play for Heidelberg University next fall.

Jones, who completed his senior year this past season as a member of the Crestline Bulldogs, is eager to continue his gridiron career while also getting a college education.

As to choosing Heidelberg, it was love at first sight.

“It really felt like family, me going to Heidelberg,” Jones said. “It was my first visit, my only visit. It just felt like family, the moment I stepped there and the moment I left.”

There was little hesitation on deciding to join the Student Princes.

“I had a few other D-3s (Division III) pursuing me. I messaged a few other coaches,” Jones said. “But Heidelberg — I was really dead set on it.”

Crestline head coach Mike Winland is happy for his senior wide receiver and for the Bulldogs’ program.

“It feels great. Heidelberg’s getting a good one,” Winland said. “C.J. was one of our hardest workers and ended up being a captain. We didn’t have the best year that we wanted, but he was one of the leaders. He helped the younger guys keep their heads up.”

Jones is open to whatever coach Scott Donaldson and his staff have in mind for him.

“I’ll listen to the coaches and do whatever they want me to,” Jones said. “Right now, I’m set to play receiver, but wherever they want me on the field, I’ll play.”

Besides being a fit in football, Heidelberg also offers the academics Jones is looking for.

“I really want to go into athletic training, and they have a great athletic training program,” Jones said.

Winland wants the football program to prepare players to compete at the college level.

“That’s our goal — to get these kids on to the next level if they want to go,” Winland said. “We teach them hard work and character.

“They’re getting a very hard worker,” Winland reiterated of Jones. “There wasn’t anything I asked him to do that he didn’t do and give it his best. As a coach, what else can you ask for?”

Heidelberg plays a very high level of Division 3 football as a member of the Ohio Athletic Conference. A high-profile member is DIII national power Mount Union. Jones feels he is up to the task.

“For sure. I just work every day and keep working no matter what and don’t put my head down,” Jones said. “I’m excited to get the chance to play there. I get to play at the next level.”