On Wednesday, Nov. 13, in front hundreds of on-lookers, ten Saints senior athletes participated in National Signing Day during an on-campus ceremony, formally announcing where they will take their talents after graduation later this year:
Marley Caldwell Softball Rutgers University
Makenna Cox Girls’ Golf Austin Peay State University
Sophia DiBonaventura Girls’ Lacrosse Fort Lewis College
Makenna Liebman Girls’ Soccer University of San Diego
Emma McSorley Girls’ Beach Volleyball Arizona State University
Skyler Ortega Girls’ Soccer Merrimack College
Bryce Quinet Boys’ Basketball University of Evansville
Whitney Reinhardt Girls’ Soccer University of Arizona
Jace Terry Baseball La Salle University
Tyler Wiggins Boys’ Lacrosse Colorado Mesa University
"Today is a huge day, because it's the day that we've worked our whole lives for," said Softball's Marley Caldwell. "It's finally the day that all our hard work -- our blood, sweat and tears -- has paid off. It means the world to every athlete here."
Signers were surrounded by friends, family, and teammates as they were introduced by their respective coaches. They then took time to tell spectators about their personal journeys and what was next for them.
"It just means everything to go from setting that 'I'm going to get to the next level' goal when you're a little kid to achieving it," said Boys' Basketball's Bryce Quinet. "This is just the start of the journey. When I get to Evansville, it's back to square one. You restart as a freshman, so it's about working hard, getting better and preparing yourself -- in my case -- to get on the court there."
Added Girls' Golf's Makenna Cox, "I'm going to miss my teammates. I love them so much. We've been through a lot together, and sports bonds people."
The State Champion NDP Boys' Golf team, as well as Co-Ed Swim & Dive, were also recognized before the focus shifted to the 10 signing seniors.
"My biggest takeaway from today was the overall recognition of our amazing athletes," said Whitney Reinhardt. "I've been waiting for this day for quite a while, but I'm just so excited and ready for my next journey."
Congratulations, Saints!