Joined by teammates, teachers, coaches, family and friends, Bloomingdale Senior High and neighboring Newsome High School featured its talented student-athletes last month during national signing day.
Newsome High School was proud to host its signing ceremony featuring senior Lucy Garner who signed with Eckerd College to further her education while playing softball.
Garner is looking forward to finishing the season as captain of the Newsome varsity softball team, under the direction of her coach Autumn Dunn. The Lady Wolves began the season strong with a winning streak (at time of writing this article against Sickles, Tampa Bay Tech and Wharton.)
Just a couple of miles down the road, Bloomingdale High principal, Sue Burkett, welcomed all during the signing held at the media center followed by comments from coaches and students as well as some festivities coupled with pizza and dessert.
“This is a proud moment for our school,” Burkett said. “We have to remember that these athletes were students first and while this is a great opportunity for them, it promotes our school and sets the example for all others that follow.”
Of course, the real reason was to congratulate Andrew LeBlanc, Sydney Ross and Ryan Kelley, who have officially signed their letters of intent to further their education, while playing the sport they love.
Kelley will attend Lake Sumter Community College where he will play baseball.
Sharing a few words, Kelly’s coach Kris Wilken pointed out his player’s strengths, which he said will serve him well as he moves onto the next level.
“Ryan is a great athlete, a leader and has become a confident player,” Wilken said, adding, “you deserve this and we will miss you.”
Taking her turn to provide a few words was Bloomingdale soccer coach Heather Iverson, who did not hesitate to praise her athlete for the hard work and commitment to education and to her sport.
“Sydney has been a pleasure to coach and with everything she had to overcome has truly earned this recognition and accomplishment,” Iverson said. “Your parents have done a great job and we are very proud of you.”
Ross, who will be attending University of Tampa and will play on the Women’s Soccer team, said, “Follow me on Twitter.”
Last but not least to sign was Bloomingdale High School track talent, Andrew LeBlank with his goal of attending the University of North Florida. His coach James Booth, joined by fellow coaches, praised LeBlanc for his talent, commitment and passion to compete, which has earned him district, regional and state titles.
“Ryan is a true leader and while we are excited for him, we will also miss him greatly,” Booth said.
LeBlanc thanked his coaches for their support and warmed everyone’s hearts when he said, “I will miss you all.”
For more information about Bloomingdale High School, visit http://bloomingdale.mysdhc.org.
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