Student Athlete Commits

2023 athletes taking further steps towards collegiate levels

Story by Elizabeth Hare

BRADY KERN

Baseball Abilene Christian University

Senior Brady Kern is committed to Abilene Christian University for baseball. Kern expressed excitement to see what it’s like to play D1 baseball and to experience a new culture. “I loved the atmosphere, the academics, and they had a really good major in nutrition,” Kern said. “It’s [also] a good place where I can develop as a player and most importantly as a person and my faith.”

ELLA MCCLEARY

Soccer Truman University

Ella McCleary, a senior student athlete, committed to Truman University for womens soccer. McCleary spoke to how passionate she is about playing soccer at the next level soccer and how the Division II college experience is ideal for her.

“I ultimately decided that Division II would give me a better chance to focus on other things too,” McCleary said. “I definitely want the social aspect of college as well. I really want to be able to start on Division II teams, that's kind of my goal.”

MARRAH SPRIGGS BRADIE WARD

Track and Field Swim

Washburn University University of Kansas

Senior Marrah Spriggs committed to Washburn University for track. Spriggs plans to major in biology and is excited about the new facilities and being able to grow. “They just got all new facilities and their coaches are just insanely good.” Spriggs said. “They’re so nice, and I really feel like I can grow”. Senior Bradie Ward signed to University of Kansas early this November. Ward hopes to make All American again in her final season and plans to compete in the 100 and 200 backstroke events. “I’ve known the coach since I was eight. I started with his daughter so I’m really close to the people,” Ward said. “I really liked the team atmosphere and everything about it”.