Six seniors sign to play sports in college

Yesterday morning, six seniors gathered in the forum for the signing day celebration. During this celebration, they confirmed their commitments to various post-secondary institutions to continue their athletic careers after high school. These outstanding seniors are Aidan Lauer, Brycen Mhlanga, Carter Wasson, Dalana Jakovljevic, Ethan Bird, and Skye Fanch. 

Dalana Jakovljevic is attending Snow College, a Division I school in Ephraim, Utah. Jakovljevic has been one of the star girls basketball players over the course of her high school career, leading the team as captain this year and earning countless “Player of the Match” awards. 

Jakovljevic talks about her commitment decision. 

“I chose Snow because out of all of my options, it was the best option for me. I didn’t want to go into a team where I had to hold the team up on my back, they already had a good program I could go into and build on,” said Jakovljevic. 

Brycen Mhlanga (left), Ethan Bird (second to the left), and Aidan Lauer (right) pose with football head coach Ricky Manzanares (second to the right)

Seniors Aidan Lauer, Brycen Mhlanga, and Ethan Bird all committed to Adams State University for football. Adams State is a Division III university in Alamosa, Colorado. All three of these seniors contributed immensely to the football program’s success in the fall. They helped the team achieve a 5-5 record for the first time in years.

Aidan Lauer touches on his decision to go to Adams State.

“I felt like it was a great fit. My teammates coming along with me was a big part of it. Everything just felt welcoming, the coaches, the teammates, and everybody there,” said Lauer.

Ethan Bird explains why signing to Adams State was important to him.

“Most football players end their football careers after high school, so the fact that I’m able to go to college and get some education paid off and continue to play football is truly a blessing,” said Bird. 

The senior elaborated, noting that his time at Littleton pushed him to grow.

“It’s no secret Littleton has struggled but I used that advantage to push myself harder than kids at Heritage and Valor,” said Bird. “I always made myself feel one step behind so I would push harder to catch up.”

Senior Carter Wasson committed to Aurora University to play lacrosse. Aurora University is a Division III school in Aurora, Illinois. Wasson still has his senior season ahead of him and based on his performance last season, the upcoming one looks promising.

Senior Skye Fanch signed to play soccer at Lake Forest College, a Division III school in Lake Forest, Illinois. Fanch was the captain of the boys’ soccer team this past season and led the team in goals, with 10 over the course of the season.

Playing college sports, regardless of division, is an immense accomplishment. Only around 7% of high school athletes go on to play in college at any level. Congratulations go out to these six seniors who continue to make LHS proud!