Nineteen athletes from the class of ‘25 will continue their sport in college next year after 10 more Patriots committed their futures at the school’s April 28 celebration.
Spring signing day invited families, coaches and teammates to celebrate the hard work of their athletes, followed by a reception in the competition gym. Ten players signed to colleges and universities across the Southeast while also committing to the increased course rigor that college brings.
Senior Ellie Watts began playing volleyball in eighth grade, which is far later than many of her teammates, and signed her letter of intent to play for Middle Tennessee State University.
During her speech of gratitude, Watts teared up reflecting on the sacrifices put in to give her this opportunity.
“I never thought I’d be standing here proud to say ‘I am a part of a Division I program’ and get to play at the highest level possible,” Watts said. “Having Mr. Keim make the poster and seeing everybody coming together at the gym, wanting to support you just meant so much. To be recognized for all the sacrifices and things that I’ve missed out on made me feel appreciated for all the hard work.”
She credits her family and coaches with helping her reach the next level, as well as the extra hours outside of practice she spent on drills.
“Every day, I’m not even exaggerating, I would do like a thousand passes on the wall,” Watts said. “I was genuinely obsessed.”
Despite a debilitating ACL tear sophomore year, Watts continued playing throughout high school and entered the college recruitment portal. Her drive and passion for the game helped her accept giving up many key parts of the college experience in order to pursue a greater purpose.
“You’re not gonna be going to parties or being in a sorority,” Watts said. “There’s responsibilities and sacrifices you have to make. I kind of knew that at a young age and I still wanted to be a part of that process.”
Marvin Patrick committed to Huntingdon College to play defense after a four-year career on the offensive line. His training balancing schoolwork and sports as a student-athlete in high school helps him look forward to spending time on a college team.
“I signed because I really just saw the opportunity,” Patrick said. “Especially when getting the offer and being invited to campus.”
Patrick looks forward to connecting with new teammates through one of his favorite activities: working out.
“My favorite thing about Huntingdon is the weight room,” Patrick said. “It’s about the size of ours. Also meeting the people, in general.”
Other students recognized for committing to college sports include:
- Luke Berguson – Wrestling, University of Montevallo
- Latham Binkley – Basketball, Trevecca Nazarene University
- Amelia Blish – Soccer, Maryville College
- Sadie Busbee – Track & Field, Wofford College
- Colvin Bussey – Track & Field, University of Alabama
- Blas Correa Catano – Wrestling, Andrew College
- Izzy Knudsen – Volleyball, Occidental College
- Emma Brooke Levering – Cross Country, Pennsylvania State University
- Gid Malone – Soccer, Centre College
- Annie McBride – Soccer, Samford University
- Savannah McDonald – Basketball, Chattanooga State Community College
- Kylen Newell – Football, University of West Alabama
- Ava Robinson – Basketball, Snead State Community College
- Jack Ross – Baseball, Southern Union Community College
- Kaman Rouse – Golf, Snead State Community College
- Charlie Sims – Basketball, Lycoming College
