Signing into a new chapter

Four seniors signed to their respective colleges to play collegiate sports for the next four years.

Keegan Williams

Four seniors signed to their respective colleges to play collegiate sports for the next four years.

Keegan Williams, Sports Editor

Signing to play collegiate sports is a big deal in the life of a young athlete, and the school had four sign this morning.

Senior David Buss signed to run cross country at Trinity University in San Antonio.

“I’m just really excited that I get to continue my cross country and track career at the next level for the next four years,” Buss said. “And to know where I’m going is just a relief.”

His coach, Stephen Friar, has known Buss since he was in elementary school, and had watched him grow into the athlete he is now.

“It’s just a testament to all the work he’s put in not just in cross country but outside of it too,” Friar said. “Just to see the growth that he’s made from being a little kid until now, it’s just something I want my kids to emulate”

Payton Powers signed to play Division 1 football at Lamar University in the Fall, and is ready to be a Cardinal.

“It’s a great feeling just knowing that I’ve secured my spot and that i know where I’m going to college and that it’s paid for and I don’t have to worry about expenses,” Powers said. “I’m just worried about how I’m going to manage my time and try to just be a kid.”

Another football player, Nathan Kabongo, signed to be a corner at Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa.

“I’m just ready to play college football in general,” Kabongo said. “It’s going to be a different experience that I can’t wait to be a part of.”

One soccer player also took the next step in his career, to play soccer at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas.

“I’m ready to go to a new state and meet know people and make new friends,” Caleb Caskey said. “But I know that I’ll have to play guys that are older and bigger and stronger and faster and that are more used to the fast tempo.”

The boys head soccer coach sees Caskey as one to succeed in the higher level play of college soccer.

“He’s a hard worker,” coach Fred Kaiser said. “And as a defender he’s also fearless, if he continues to show the same level of dedication I know he’ll be successful.”