SAN ANTONIO – High schools across the nation celebrated student-athletes’ next journey during National Signing Day. On Wednesday in San Antonio, Johnson High School had eight girls who signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the college level.
The Jaguars recognized standouts from the school’s soccer, golf, basketball, and softball programs during a signing ceremony on campus. This event marks a significant milestone for these athletes, as they transition from high school sports to collegiate athletics.
Soccer led the way for Johnson with five signees. The players expressed their gratitude and excitement about their journeys ahead. “I was very surprised and very grateful that I got to sign with a lot of my teammates,” said Johnson senior left wing Abriella Gonzales. “I wouldn’t have been here without them and I’m very blessed to share this moment with them.”
Jaguars senior center back Sophia Allen noted the importance of camaraderie on a day filled with celebrations. “I love to see all my family and all my friends here and I love to see everyone else sign and get together and all sign together. It makes senior year really special,” Allen said.
Three of the soccer signees will remain close to home, with one player committing to play for Jake Plant at the University of the Incarnate Word and two others continuing their journey together at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin. “I’m actually really excited,” said Johnson senior striker Jordin Trimble. “(Sophia Allen) is one of my closest friends, so I’m hoping that we continue our bond and that we can play together at TLU.”
“I get to do it with my best friends, so it’s super fun to be here,” added Johnson senior midfielder Makenzie Shirley. “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.”
The signees will finish their senior seasons and prepare to join their college programs after graduation, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives.
Antonian High School
Four Antonian Apaches also basked in the National Signing Day spotlight. This group comprises three volleyball players and one softball player, all coming from successful high school programs that have equipped them for the challenges ahead.
“I landed there because I really love the coaches there and the culture they’re building,” Kenadie Pina said regarding her commitment to study architecture at New Mexico University.
“It’s just so amazing,” shared Apaches senior shortstop and third baseman Isabella Vasquez. “It felt like all my hard work has finally paid off. It’s amazing to be with these other three great volleyball players. I feel very blessed to be here.”
The volleyball signees are part of a program that recently achieved a TAPPS state runner-up finish, adding to a strong foundation as they now prepare to compete at the collegiate level. “Going to state is an amazing opportunity for any team,” said Antonian senior middle blocker Maci Cantu. “I’m honestly so proud of my team and I for making it.”
“Doing my last game in the gym and last game at state was very emotional, not heartbreaking, but just cherishing my time here because there’s no program like this one,” said Apaches senior setter Camila Serna. The four Antonian athletes will now turn their attention to finishing their high school careers before joining their college programs.
Harlan High School
Two Harlan Hawks also celebrated National Signing Day with commitments to Division I programs. Volleyball star Nailah Randle signed her commitment to LSU, where she’ll be joining the Tigers. Reflecting on her journey, Randle said, “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.”
Josiah Jones made history as the first player to receive a full ride to a Division I school from the Hawks boys’ basketball program. After spending his junior year in Dallas, Jones felt it was crucial to finish his high school career in San Antonio, where he was born and raised. “I wanted my family to come to all of my games my senior year,” Jones said. “I’m just very proud of what I’ve accomplished.”
