Twelve athletes signed letters of intent to play sports at the collegiate level surrounded by friends, family and coaches in the auxiliary gym on Wednesday, Feb. 4.

With six of the signees being baseball players, head baseball coach Jeff Strickland said this is a reflection of the player’s love of the game.

“We have a lot of baseball players that love the game and who are dedicated to the sport,” Strickland said. “They’re not only good baseball players but they’re good students as well. We’ve never questioned their work ethic, and overall they’re very good kids.”

The other six athletes signed to three additional sports including softball, soccer and football.

Among the 11 NCAA Division I football offers senior Evan Applegate received, many factors went into his final decision of Kansas State University.

“I have a sister that goes there and a lot of family in Western Kansas,” Applegate said. “[K-State is] a good team, they were ranked 11 at one point in the season. It also just felt right.”

This signing moves Applegate closer to his dream of experiencing success at K-State.

“It’s exciting. It makes everything official. I can finally say I’m a Wildcat football player,” Applegate said. “I’m looking forward to winning a few Big 12 Championships and maybe a national title.”

The following athletes signed:

Senior Lexie Myers, Washburn University, softball

Senior Lacie Myers, Washburn University, softball

Senior Bailey Weeks, Northeastern State University, boys soccer

Senior Maddie Butterfield, University of South Dakota, girls soccer

Senior Evan Applegate, Kansas State University, football

Senior Conner Kaifes, Coffeyville Community College, football

Senior Matt Scanlon, Midland University, baseball

Senior Luke Rachwal, University of St. Thomas, baseball

Senior Zach Hanna, Iowa Western Community College, baseball

Senior Tyler Garrison, Iowa Western Community College, baseball

Senior Shae Stephens, Cowley County Community College, baseball

Senior Jake Hanson, Highland Community College, baseball