San Antonio high schools marked National Signing Day on Wednesday with on‑campus ceremonies that celebrated senior athletes committing to continue their academic and athletic journeys at the college level. The events underscored the strength of local sports programs and the pride families feel when their children move on to the next chapter.
Johnson High School highlights eight women’s signings
Johnson High School’s senior class saw eight girls sign National Letters of Intent. The ceremony featured standouts from the school’s soccer, golf, basketball and softball teams. Soccer led the way with five signees.
“I was very surprised and very grateful that I got to sign with a lot of my teammates,” senior left wing Abriella Gonzales said. “I wouldn’t have been here without them and I’m very blessed to share this moment with them.”
Senior center back Sophia Allen added, “I love to see all my family and all my friends here and I love to see everyone else sign and get together. It makes senior year really special.”
Three of the Johnson athletes will stay close to home. One will play for Coach Jake Plant at the University of the Incarnate Word, while two others will join former teammates at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin.
“I’m actually really excited,” senior striker Jordin Trimble said of her friend Allen’s decision to attend TLU. “We’re hoping we can continue our bond and play together at TLU.”
Midfielder Makenzie Shirley echoed the sentiment, noting the deep friendships formed through soccer: “I get to do this with my best friends, so it’s super fun to be here. We have a bond outside of soccer, but we all met each other through soccer, so it’s been really exciting to be able to be here today.”
Antonian Apaches showcase four college-bound athletes
Four Antonian Apaches earned National Signing Day recognition. The group includes three volleyball players and one softball player, each emerging from successful high‑school programs.
Kenadie Pina, a volleyball recruit, said she chose New Mexico University because of the coaches and the culture they are building. “I’m excited to study architecture there,” she added.
Senior shortstop and third baseman Isabella Vasquez expressed gratitude for her hard work paying off, while senior middle blocker Maci Cantu praised her team’s recent TAPPS state runner‑up finish as a strong foundation for college competition.
Setter Camila Serna reflected on her final high‑school game, describing it as “very sad, not heartbreaking, but just cherishing my time here and there’s no program like this one.”
Harlan Hawks send two athletes to Division I programs
Harlan High School celebrated two Division I commitments. Volleyball star Nailah Randle signed with Louisiana State University, becoming a Tiger. “Little me would never think I made it here today, so I really think it’s just a blessing to be able to do this,” Randle said.
Josiah Jones made history as the first Harlan boys basketball player to earn a full‑ride scholarship to a Division I school. After spending his junior year in Dallas, Jones chose to finish his high‑school career in his hometown of San Antonio. “I wanted my family to come to all of my games my senior year,” he explained, “I’m just very proud of what I’ve accomplished.”
Looking ahead
All of the signees will complete their senior seasons before heading to college in the spring. Their commitments reflect the dedication of San Antonio’s coaches, families and community members who have supported these athletes throughout their high‑school careers.
National Signing Day serves as a reminder of the vital role that local schools play in nurturing talent, fostering teamwork and preparing young people for success both on the field and in the classroom.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.