Students got the chance on Wednesday to share their commitment in continuing their athletic careers in college. This tri-annual, celebratory event is known as Athletic Signing Day. After years of dedication and athletic excellence at LFHS, these seniors commit to taking the next step in their athletic journeys.
The following seniors were recognized: Taylor Bernstein, track and field at St. Norbert College; Jack Douglass, golf at Hope College; Connor Gustafson, soccer at Haverford College; Lily Remus, soccer at DePauw University; Maddie Rode, sailing at Georgetown University; Phoebe Silver, lacrosse at Kenyon College; and George Thomas, track and field at Furman University.
The commitment that college athletics demand takes a major step up from high school. Senior Maddie Rode, who has been sailing since the age of 7, has dreamt of taking this huge next step. After sailing in cities including Chicago, San Francisco, Miami, and more, she is bringing her skills to Washington D.C. with the Georgetown Sailing Team.
“I’m really looking forward to this new chapter,” said Rode. “But standing here, I feel like my hands are shaking.”
Lily Remus, a four-year Varsity Girls Soccer player and senior captain, is used to the high demands of her sport. She is now looking forward to embracing the unknown of a new college environment next year: playing soccer at DePauw University.
“I’m so excited to meet new people and get to know my new team,” said Remus.
Another signee is Jack Douglass, Varsity Boys Golf Captain and state qualifier, who has committed to play golf at Hope College next year. While this event celebrated future plans, Douglass shared how he has consistently felt the community’s support behind him.
“My favorite and the most unique part about LFHS sports has gotta be the support from the whole lake forest community. I remember so many parents and teachers always checking up on me and asking how the season was going and how I was doing,” said Douglass.
As a track state qualifier and captain of the Boys Varsity Soccer Team, George Thomas has excelled in athletics at LFHS. Before bringing his track and field skills to Furman University next year, he is excited to fulfill his last season with the Scouts this spring.
“Track can be seen as an individual sport, but at LFHS, our family makes it a team sport,” said Thomas. “I’m extremely excited for my opportunity to compete at the next level and am training hard, but focused on my last track season with the high school.”
