On November 8, senior athletes across the country signed their National Letters of Intent (NLI) to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Pleasant Valley celebrated seven of its college-bound athletes on November 27 with a ceremonial signing.
Seven Spartan athletes were joined by their family, coaches and teammates while they made commitments to their respective schools. Will Christopherson committed to play baseball at Michigan State University while Alexia Lara will continue her softball career at Drake University. In addition, both Ellie Spelhaug and Kira Arthofer will play college basketball. Spelhaug at Bradley University and Arthofer at Eastern Illinois University. Lastly, Elissa Moylan, Kelsey Ruff and Brooke Harris will all continue their volleyball careers. Moylan will attend Southeast Missouri State University, Ruff committed to Augustana University in Sioux Falls and Harris will play beach volleyball at the College of Charleston.
Head coaches Bill Sandry (baseball), Amber Hall (volleyball), Jennifer Goetz (girls’ basketball) and Jose Lara (softball) highlighted the coachability, competitive drives and work ethics their athletes possessed, all qualities that will bring them success both in their sports and in life. Pleasant Valley Activities Director, D’Anne Kroemer also said, “These seven athletes have spirit and spunk. Their character speaks volumes and they are proof that hard work does pay off. They will always be Spartans at heart.”
The athletes also shared their thoughts on their commitments. Harris stated, “It’s really exciting being able to go to school where you want and play the sport you love.” Spelhaug added, “I’m honored to have represented Pleasant Valley these past four years… and I’m not done yet! I’m beyond excited for this opportunity to continue my basketball career at Bradley.”
While many future college athletes sign NLI, not all collegiate institutions are involved in the NLI signing process or are able to offer athletic scholarships. Pleasant Valley is proud to honor all of its athletes furthering their athletic careers, no matter which school they choose. It’s a tremendous accomplishment to become a college athlete, and Spartan Nation commemorates all of its athletes continuing onto the next level.
