Da'Ron Barksdale signs Letter of Intent to continue academic, football pursuits at University of Pittsburgh

Da'Ron Barksdale is officially set to become a Pitt Panther.

The Steel Valley High School senior formally signed his scholarship papers to continue his academic and athletic career at the University of Pittsburgh next fall. Barksdale was joined by his family, friends, teammates, coaches, and friends for a special Signing Day Ceremony on Wednesday, December 3 in the high school auditorium.

A dynamic two-way player, Barksdale rarely left the field for the Ironmen this season. He locked down opposing offenses by roaming the secondary on defense, where he was a ferocious tackler and dangerous playmaker capable of turning games around with an interception. On offense, Barksdale had a nose for the endzone, rushing for 2,086 yards and scoring 36 total touchdowns as a senior.

Barksdale helped Steel Valley win a WPIAL Class 2A championship as a freshman and led the Ironmen back to the championship game twice more - once as a sophomore and again earlier this year as senior.

During Wednesday's Signing Day ceremony, Barksdale's coaches not only praised him for his athletic ability, but for his character, leadership, and drive to overcome adversity.

Congratulations to Da'Ron! We look forward to watching you continue to grow as a Pitt Panther, but you'll always be part of the Ironmen family!