By Tamas Monodvics
Student-athletes throughout Hillsborough County enjoyed the spotlight last month as they celebrated their commitments to the school of their choice on national college signing day.
Joined by teammates, teachers, coaches, family and friends, dozens of these students expressed their thanks for everyone’s support as well as the respect they have earned from those around them both inside and outside the classroom.
Adding to the list, the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center was also proud of three of its Blue Wave swimmers and Strawberry Crest High School students who have signed their college commitments during a festive ceremony held last month.
Angelina Gallestegue has committed to attend the University of West Florida, while teammates Cole Wisecarver and Zachary Kitzis will attend Florida Atlantic University.
All three seniors have been training at BSAC under the care of Blue Wave Head Coach, Ron Turner.
Area schools, such as Bloomingdale, Newsome and East Bay High School, all had a chance to feature its seniors on their special day.
Bloomingdale students Andrew LeBlanc, Sydney Ross and Ryan Kelley, all 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.
Ross will be attending the University of Tampa and will play on the Women’s Soccer team, while Bloomingdale High School track talent, Andrew LeBlanc will attend the University of North Florida.
Newsome high School senior, Lucy Garner, signed with Eckerd College to further her education and play softball.
East Bay High School was also proud of its two seniors, Taylor Baker and Amber Hess, for their achievement in accepting scholarships to play softball.
Baker accepted a scholarship to play for Polk State College, while teammate and third baseman, Hess, accepted a scholarship to play for Pasco-Hernando State College.
“This is a proud moment for our school,” Bloomingdale High Principal, Suzan 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.”
For more information about high school sports, visit www.FHSAA.org. For more information about the Blue Wave Swim Team at The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, please call Member Services at 689-0908.
