Gallery • 15 Photos

By Abigail Archibong

Senior Abigail Hughes signs her letter of intent to dance at Kansas State University

Thirteen seniors committed to collegiate-level athletic teams during the athletic signing on Tuesday, May 3.

Senior Derek Meeks signed to run track at the University of Iowa and felt like running will always be a part of his life.

“Early on, I found that running was something that I was good at. I couldn’t see myself without running,” Meeks said. “I think it is something I will continue after college too.”

Despite having to meet higher demands set by his college coaches, Meeks was eager to join the team.

“There are elevated expectations, but I’m not really nervous,” Meeks said. “I’m more excited to meet the team and start training.”

Senior Rienna Schriner signed to play softball at the University of Charleston at West Virginia, and was eager to start playing despite possible difficulties.

“I’m excited to get out of Kansas and go to West Virginia and play softball in college,” Schriner said. “I think it will be challenging and very scary at first, but I think I’ll be good at it.”

According to Meeks, his hard work and dedication contributed to him receiving an opportunity to compete at the college level.

“I’ve put in a lot of hard work, especially in distance, because you can’t just show up and beat everybody. You have to put in the work,” Meeks said.

Schriner views playing softball in college as a way to find new people as well as gain new experiences.

“I just want to meet great people and have great friends,” Schriner said. “I also want to see the United States more because, we will travel a lot. I think it’s going to be exciting.”

Schriner believes those who she is close to have played a part in her decision to play softball in college.

“I have met so many great people in my life. They are literally my softball family,” Schriner said. “I dedicate [my signing] to them.”

The following athletes signed:

Senior Kasey Conklin: Nebraska Wesleyan University, basketball

Senior Catie Kaifes: State Fair Community College, basketball

Senior Sara Hempleman: William Jewell College, cheer

Senior Amber Akin: Rockhurst University, cross country

Senior Sarah Amos: Northwest Missouri State University, dance

Senior Abigail Hughes: Kansas State University, dance

Senior Koy Holden: Lincoln University, golf

Senior Gabby Appl: Avila University, soccer

Senior Kaylee Chapman: Northeast Community College, soccer

Senior Kaitlyn Moore: Hutchison Community College, soccer

Senior Rienna Schriner: University of Charleston, softball

Senior Derek Meeks: University of Iowa, track

Senior Ellie Wilson: University of South Dakota, track