By SIERRA DEAN

Boyle County High School

On Feb. 6, Boyle County High School held its second of three annual signing days for five senior student-athletes, all of which are attending different universities. Those student-athletes are: Abby Carter, Centre College soccer; Sierra Dean, University of the Cumberlands volleyball; Aaron Hatter, Kentucky Wesleyan football; Rachel Leath, Lees-McRae basketball and lastly Ashley Smith who is attending Eastern Kentucky University for track and field.

Signing days at the high school are exciting not only for the seniors, but also for their families, coaches and friends who are in attendance to congratulate and show support. Each signee enjoyed the experience as well as the recruiting process for a variety of reasons.

Carter sees another home inside of Danville. “I have always known Centre as the perfect fit for me. Centre has everything I need to be successful. I feel completely at home there, but also in my own separate community outside of Danville.”

Having a brother who played football at Cumberlands, Dean’s heart has been there for four years already. “I have wanted to go to UC since my freshman year of high school. I am so blessed to be able to continue playing the sport I love at the next level. UC is already like a second home to me.”

Hatter is happy to have the process come to an end. “The recruiting process was really tough. Some coaches showed they really cared and wanted me to play for them and others did not seem to care as much. The whole process was sort of back and forth with coaches and I felt the most connection with Kentucky Wesleyan.”

Leath was impressed with her coach’s outlook. “Lees-McRae had everything I wanted. The coach is amazing and the fact that he is so strong in his faith is really going to help me when I’m there. The team overall is just great.”

Smith mentions her comfort with her school. “EKU has always been in my heart. When I went on my visit, the athletes and coaches made me feel so welcomed and I felt as though I was at my home away from home. I know at EKU I will be successful in both athletics and academics.” These athletes have worked extra hard during their high school careers to have the opportunity to enjoy this really special afternoon. Congratulations to all.