A total of 18 athletes took part in a group college signing ceremony in the auxiliary gym on Thursday, Feb. 7.

In previous years, athletes have signed separately or in smaller groups. Athletics director David Ewers said the group recognition ceremony was used at his former school and that he wanted to give athletes the chance to celebrate together.

“I felt that it celebrated the athletic department as a whole and I felt that it gave the athletes a chance to celebrate their … signings as a whole,” Ewers said. “I thought it went very well. I think people overall were very pleased with the event, so if those people were pleased, I was pleased. I thought it looked very nice and professional.”

Track coach Chris Dunback had two athletes sign and also enjoyed the event for the group celebration.

“I thought it was a really neat thing,” Dunback said. “Instead of having every kid [sign] on their own, they turned it into a special event and I thought that was awesome. I think it’s one of the best things we’ve done around here in a long time in terms of that. I just think the grandeur of the event … felt like a big deal. It was just a special thing to be a part of. Not only was it something for our athletes but it was also like a celebration of our school.”

The following athletes signed:

Senior Kayla Hammer, University of Central Missouri, soccer

Senior McKenzie Koch, Emporia State University, soccer

Senior Hayley Seibel, Baker University, soccer

Senior Kelli Spring, Wichita State University, softball

Senior Taylor Brunson, Johnson County Community College, softball

Senior Emily Brigham, University of South Dakota, track

Senior Madison Estell, Hillsdale College, track

Senior Molly Kelly, McPherson College, volleyball

Senior LJ Hatch, Johnson County Community College, baseball

Senior Jason Younger, Baker University, baseball

Senior Zach Stinnett, Washburn University, baseball

Senior Skyler Windmiller, Missouri Western University, football

Senior Kendall Short, Missouri Western University, football

Senior Coleman McCann, University of Northern Colorado, football

Senior Knute Holden, Baker University, football

Senior Staton Rebeck, William Jewell College, football

Senior Lincoln Benson, Hutchinson Community College, football

Senior Andrew Campbell, Chadron State College, football