On Wednesday, 22 seniors were honored at the spring athletic signing, involving 12 sports. Each athlete had the opportunity to invite their families, friends, coaches or trainers on stage while they gave a speech and officially signed.
Brayden Matulka signed with Hastings College to further his athletic career playing football. He started playing in flag football when he was young, moving up to youth football next and continued for four years in high school.
“It’s hard to deal with a social life, school life, and sports as a student athlete,” Matulka said. “But my sport has helped me with time management and becoming a leader for my team.”
Matulka offered advice for those struggling with their college sports decision or those debating on if they will further their athletic career at the next level.
“Do what you want and what you feel is right for you – everybody has a different story,” Matulka said. “You always can control what you do, so don’t let other people choose what is best for you.”
Sam Andres committed and signed to the University of Nebraska-Kearney to continue his love for wrestling. When it comes to the stress and anxiety of wrestling, Sam likes to offer it up to God before a match.
“My coaches always knew I wanted to wrestle in college, so we weren’t just planning each year for my season at Pius, but preparing for college,” Andres said. “I’m most looking forward to having teammates with the same goals as me and I think being with people at the next level will be big for my wrestling career.”
Zach Woosley has been running cross country and track for eight years and will continue to as he signed with the University of Nebraska-Wesleyan.
“I am looking forward to bettering myself through my college sport and pushing myself to run faster,” Woosley said. “For those struggling with their college decision, keep working, there will always be highs and lows in life, but God will always have your back.”