Southern Tier Sports ReportHORSEHEADS — Horseheads held a college signing recently for three athletes who will be heading to the next level to compete in sports at the D3/JUCO levels.
Here’s a look at the three athletes who signed on the day.
KAILEE WEST
CORNING COMMUNITY COLLEGE, SOFTBALL
For West, an injury kept her out this year, but she’s excited to get back to playing softball.
“I still have a really long way to go, but I’m excited to get back to it,” West said. “I miss it so much, it’s like my every day lifestyle.”
For West CCC was a good fit for what she wanted.
“It’s a great program, I love the coach, it’s close to home and it’s pretty cheap,” West said.
The Horseheads senior is excited to compete at the next level.
“I am really excited,” she said. “It’s like my entire lief, and I’m ready to move on and compete at the next level.”
CCC has been to three straight national titles and West is excited to be part of that.
“I have high hopes, I hope we do it (win a national title) this year,” West said.
SAMANTHA OAKES
ALLEGHANY COLLEGE TRACK AND FIELD, CROSS COUNTRY
When it came to colleges Alleghany had everything Oakes was looking for.
“The running program and academics were both really high,” Oakes said. “I did an overnight with them and I really liked the team and their chemistry program is really good.”
Oakes is excited to compete at the next level.
“Super hyped for the new competition level and also the new training level,” Oakes said.
Signing with one of her teammates made the whole experience fun.
“It was pretty fun,” Oakes said. “I have been running with Ayla for probably eight years so it was fun to do it beside her.”
AYLA KERWAN
SUSQUEHANNA TRACK AND FIELD, CROSS COUNTRY
“I was really looking for a place where I could continue athletics and academics at the same level and Susquehanna really seemed to foster growth rather than cut throat competition, while still having both aspects so that was the main thing,” Kerwan said.
It was special to have a signing alongside one of her friends and teammates.
“It felt surreal,” Kerwan said. “I have always been running with Sam for so long so it’s crazy to see both of us go on to this level.”
The Horseheads senior is excited to compete at the next level.
“I’m very pumped, I can’t wait to see what it brings,” Kerwan said.
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PHOTOS BY BRIAN FEES
