The future is bright for six student athletes who signed to continue their education at various colleges on Wednesday, Nov. 10.
Kendall Sadler signed to play volleyball at Southern Arkansas University and plans to become a Pediatric Dentist. Sadler’s coach, Kayli Cane also attended SAU. SAU is in Magnolia, Arkansas, has less than 12,000 people, and the university has less than 3,500 students.
“I chose SAU because it is similar to Texas,” Sadler said. “It looks like Montgomery, and the people there are super nice.”
Also signing to play volleyball is Madison Chandler, who is attending LeTourneau University, where she will be a yellow jacket wearing blue and gold. LeTourneau is located in Longview, in east Texas.
“I picked the college because I liked the coaches and the people,” Chandler said. “They seem like really great people and someone I would want to play for.”
Both Chandler and Sadler have been varsity players all four years of high school; Chandler was moved up to varsity for the playoffs her freshman year. Chander is an outside hitter and Sadler is a libero.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to have helped coach both Madi and Kyndall,” assistant volleyball coach Jessica Mitchell said. “I am so proud of both of these young ladies, and I love getting to watch their hard work pay off as they head to play at the next level. These ladies are phenomenal students, leaders, and athletes; I have no doubt that they will continue to excel in each of these roles as they embark on this new and exciting chapter.”
Trey Acreman has been on varsity since his sophomore year. He plays shortstop and has almost a .300 batting average. Acreman is signing to play baseball at Sam Houston State University. The Bearkats placed second in the Southland Conference in 2021.
“I picked this college because it’s the best fit for me and my family,” Acreman said. “I attribute my success to my parents because they put forth a lot of money for me.”
Also signing to play baseball is Connor Benge, who is a right-hand pitcher. He will attend LSU- Eunice. He wants to be a professional baseball player. Benge has been on varsity since he was a freshman.
“I attribute my success to my parents and my friends for keeping my accountable,” Benge said. “I am looking forward to getting to know life-long friends and playing the sport.”
Makenzie Griffith is signing to play soccer at Tarleton University. Next year will be Tarleton’s first year with a soccer team. Griffith is planning on studying Sports Medicine to be a Physical Therapist.
“I attribute my success to my dad because he’s kept me playing when I didn’t want to,” Griffith said. “Also, my club because I wouldn’t be able to play on a college level without them.”
A four year varsity player, Griffith received the District 20-5A Defensive Player of the Year in 2020 and the District 20-5A Offensive Player of the Year in 2021.
“I have had the pleasure of knowing Kenzie since she was about 6 years old,” soccer coach Brandi Wilkinson said. “I have enjoyed watching her grow as a soccer player. Kenzie is unlike many players. She is a very versatile player and will do great things for the Tarleton State University Soccer team.”
Swimming at the State meet for the past three years, Kaitlyn Weightman signed with Incarnate Word in San Antonio. As a freshman, she was a member of the gold medal 400 relay team. The swim team also won the 5A State Championship that year. As a sophomore, Weightman placed 5th in the 500 yard freestyle and 7th in the 200 yard freestyle. As a junior, she placed 6th in the 200 yard freestyle.
“I’m very excited to be a part of the team as well as improve my speed individually,” Weightman said. “I love the coaches and the family-like atmosphere that the team has. I can’t wait for all of the travel meets. The second I stepped onto the campus, I fell in love with everything.”
Note: MHS Journalism students contributed this story for the MISD Premier Blog.
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