On May 1st, five outstanding Sahuaro athletes were celebrated on signing day. This event, which took place in the auditorium after school, and also appropriately fell on National College Decision Day.
In an auditorium filled with friends, family, coaches, and everyone who supported these Cougars’ journey, Mr. Botkin, Sahuaro’s Athletic Director, welcomed everyone in and introduced the stars. Pictures were sent in to create a slideshow that was displayed in the background of each student. The following athletes will be moving on to the collegiate level:
- Marley Gandee (Cross Country & Track and Field)- North Park University
- Montana Poe (Volleyball)- Bethany State University
- Jermarell Webb (Football) – Ottowa University
- Zariyah Witlock (Track and Field) – Pima Community College
- Liz Ugwu (Track and Field) -Pima Community College
Among the athletes lined up with their decorated tables, Marley Gandee was the first to be introduced. Coach Pratt gave a heartfelt speech about Marley’s accomplishments and talent. Marley has been running for all four years at Sahuaro, but Coach Pratt got here during her sophomore year, and for him it has been, “…such a joy coaching her.” He praised Marley for running long distances, which isn’t easy, and for setting a personal record when it was cold and rainy. “At this point, we’re at the end of her athletic career at Sahuaro. Obviously, there’s a next chapter coming shortly in a few months, but the story started here three years ago, and it’s the evolution of her process, buying into the program, and doing the work. It was some really tough days out there, I can tell you that, and those tough days are what got her here.” He said. “I’m just so proud of you…I’m going to miss you…you’ve got a bright future and I’m so excited to see what’s coming next for you.”
Montana Poe was the second to be introduced and received praise from Coach Haynes. He started out by saying, “Let me tell you a little something about Montana. She played in the toughest region in 4A girl’s volleyball… She was number 8 in 4A Kino in hitting percentage and led our team, she was number 9 in 4A Kino is kills and led our team, she was number 4 in 4A Kino in blocks, behind two girls that went D1, and led our team, and she was number 22 in the state in 4A in blocks.” Montana’s incredible stats aren’t just what made her a good player, it’s her character and values that contributed to her role on the team. Montana is always looking to make things right if she feels that her attitude affected her game, and this didn’t go unnoticed by her team. Mr. Haynes added, “She would stop and apologize because relationships were more important to her than winning. She really does exemplify our core values as a girls’ volleyball team of being fierce competitors with outstanding character, and so Montana I know that you are going to do great and incredible things as you go off to college, and I’m super jealous of your coach and getting to see where you go in the future.”
Following the fall sport athletes, Jermarell “Jay” Webb was introduced next by coach Al Alexander. Football starts in January, and the boys work hard until their first game. Coach Al recognized that when he first got there, the program was a mess, but the boys put in the work and became exceptional role models. He said, “When I first got her it was a mess, and now we got a bunch of dudes that bought in, our members are up, and it’s thanks to people like Webb…this is my first class coming up, and to set the standard for these guys for this past year, Webb was one of them guys.” He mentioned the rocky start he had with him, but said, “…once he finally figured out and bought in, he got rewarded at the gate. He figured out how to put in hard work and dedication and to finish the job, and super proud of him.” Sahuaro sports are a family, and coach Al reminded him of that by saying, “…if you ever need anything you got your brotherhood, your family, and we all got you.”
The next two athletes were signing for track and field. Coach Lou was grateful to see that all five singees were currently on the track team. He said, “This is a joy for me, all five athletes, track and field, all of them.” He pointed out all of their amazing track qualities, highlighting Montana for holding the school record in the long jump, Marley for being an ‘exquisite’ long-distance runner, and Jay Webb for being their fastest sprinter this year.
Now to the first track athlete, Zaritah Whitlock. The track team truly exemplifies Sahuaro’s family values, especially the playful attitude among the team. Coach Lou started by saying, “Ms. Whitlock, bow-legged little girl coming off from soccer. Been with us for three years, love her to death. Works hard, decided to put in the grind this year, and became the sprinter that she should be.” Zariyah has proved her shining abilities, and He believes Zariyah will be Pima’s star when she gets there. Zariyah is a multitalented athlete, and could’ve committed for her soccer skills, but she ultimately decided to focus on track.
Last but not least, Liz Ugwu is continuing her track and field career at Pima Community College. Coach Lou knew she was going to be good since she was young because her father coached for him. “She works hard…when she wants to, she listens to coaches, when she wants to, but she’s come a long way this year, she’s become one of our leaders…she’s been that girl…Liz, good luck and congratulations.” Liz will be pursuing throwing.
To conclude the event, all of the athletes signed their letters of intent with their “Once a cougar, always a cougar” pen, which he made sure all worked this year! Mr. Botkin said, “Student athletes, you have made us all very proud of your incredible accomplishments. Thank you for representing Sahuaro in the best and most favorable way. You got it done in the classroom, you got it done on the field, on the court, and we really appreciate you.” Congratulations to all of the athletes who signed to play at the next level.
