NEOSHO, Mo. — Neosho High School honored six seniors with a National Signing Day ceremony on Wednesday morning.
The Wildcats saw commitments from Kaden Decker (football, Missouri Southern), Olivia Hixon (basketball, Westminster College), Sierra Jones (shortstop, Haskell University), Brett Slavens (baseball, MidAmerican Nazarene), Kayden Wood (soccer, William Woods University) and Trinity Morgan (cheerleading, Drury University).
“Playing at the next level has always been one of my biggest dreams ever since I knew that I had the opportunity to do something big with my talents that I have in basketball,” Hixon said to SoMo Sports. “Finally being able to say I am going to play the sport that I love at the collegiate level feels so rewarding.”
The signing class of 2021 was quick to praise their time at Neosho, which helped mold them into the student-athletes they’ve become.
“I have grown a ton both mentally and physically through my time in high school,” Decker said. “I have learned both mental and physical toughness. I learned how to be a leader both on and off the field.”
CARL JUNCTION’S PATTERSON SIGNS LETTER OF INTENT
CARL JUNCTION, Mo. — Drew Patterson realized his dream on Wednesday, signing his name to a letter of commitment to play college football at Ottawa University on National Signing Day.
“It has always been a dream to play football collegiately,” Patterson said to SoMo Sports. “Ottawa just felt like the right place for me and my future.”
Patterson transitioned from quarterback to one of the Bulldogs’ leading wide receivers in his senior season at Carl Junction. He will be heading to Ottawa as a pass catcher and said his time as a Bulldog meant everything.
“High school sports helped me learn what I was capable of as an athlete,” Patterson said. “It made me a better person and was a great experience I will always remember.”
PITTSBURG, Kan. — Pittsburg State welcomed a new wave of Gorillas to the football program via live stream to celebrate National Signing Day on Wednesday.
Pittsburg State head coach Brian Wright and his coaching staff touched on each of the 38 high school seniors who signed letters of commitment as well as two college transfers in the presentation.
“The first thing that stands out is the versatility of the players we wanted,” Wright said. “Athletes that come in and have a lot of skill sets that played different positions in high school. We started this thing out a year ago today knowing that we wanted to get bigger as a football team, and faster. We wanted to recruit tough football players, and I felt like we got that accomplished.”
Of the 40 total athletes making their way to Pittsburg State, 10 of them are offensive line recruits.
“It all starts up front to me, on both sides of the football,” Wright said. “We had to address a depth issue there. We did that. I am excited about not only the depth, but the talent and caliber of player we are getting at the position.”
The Gorillas are also bringing in two quarterbacks, two running backs, four wide receivers, two tight ends on offense. Defensively, Pittsburg State inked four defensive linemen, five linebackers, five cornerbacks and three safeties. PSU also earned commitments from one long snapper, one athlete and one kicker.
“It helped that we were able to be on the road this season while the Division I schools were not,” Wright said of the recruiting process during the COVID pandemic. “I like to think we went out a year ago today and started working really, really hard to develop those relationships with these kids and their parents. That was the biggest difference between this year and last year, just the fact that we had a lot more time to form that relationship and more time to get them here and show them Pittsburg State.”
Locally, Pittsburg State added seven student-athletes to its commitment list—Webb City offensive lineman Grant Goltra, Lamar defensive lineman Rylan Wooldridge, Frontenac cornerback Ty Gates, St. Mary’s Colgan defensive lineman Kannon Keller and kicker Janko Kalan, Paola offensive lineman Carter Stanchfield and Cassville linebacker Zach Coenen.
“I think it is critical to get the good local talent here,” Wright said. “Those kids have been dreaming about Pittsburg State for a long time. They want to become really good football players and good representations of this program and this area. They are going to give you everything they have.”
For the full list of Pittsburg State’s recruiting class, click the link below:
Like the rest of the country, Wednesday was a special day at Joplin High School, as six football players signed their letters of intent to continue their athletic and academic careers at the next level on National Signing Day.
Nathan Glades, Scott Lowe and Trayshawn Thomas all committed to Missouri Southern, while Dominick Simmons signed with Evangel University. Keaton Renfro inked his name to Missouri S&T, with Davis Ramsey signing on to play for William Penn.
“This is an unbelievable feeling,” Lowe said. “This has always been a dream of mine since I was a little kid—to play college football. I had a grandfather who coached high school football, and my father played college football. Ever since I was little, all I have been around is football. I just want to make my family proud.”
Glades will be heading to Southern as a running back and kick returner, with Lowe as a linebacker and Thomas as a wide receiver.
“I want to go out there and be a part of a program where I am not just a statistic,” Glades said. “I want to go change a program around, which I helped do here at Joplin. … I view this as a stepping stone for me. College (football) is not where I want to stop (playing). That’s for sure.”
Of course, with three players who were instrumental in turning Joplin’s football program around, they look forward to helping lay a positive foundation at Missouri Southern, which will have a new head coach to start next season.
“It’s awesome and amazing,” Lowe said of his chance to continue playing with some of his teammates at Missouri Southern. “It was always the challenge to lay the foundation at Joplin. Now, going to Southern, it’s something that we look forward to. We want to be in situations where we have our backs against the wall with everyone against us. We look forward to those situations because there is only one way to go, and that’s up.”
Simmons will be attending Evangel as a cornerback, and already has a feeling of what to expect at the next level. He has been in contact with former Joplin quarterback Blake Tash, who committed to Evangel last year on National Signing Day.
“I talked to Blake when they offered me,” Simmons said. “He said they were a great program. … We’ve been talking all offseason about it. He really helped me with my decision. … This is a great feeling. I just give thanks to God every day for helping me along the way.”
Like many players, Wednesday was a dream come true for Renfro, who will be playing as a wide receiver for the Miners’ program.
“It means a lot to me because I know this is a special opportunity that everyone doesn’t get,” Renfro said. “It is a blessing. … This is the first huge decision I am making in my life. … With this decision, I am taking on the responsibility of performing in the classroom and on the field in one of the most-important times of my life—when I am growing into an adult.”
For Ramsey, an offensive tackle, it was a simple decision to sign with William Penn. They made him feel like he belonged instantly.
“I took a visit up there a couple of weeks ago,” Ramsey said. “When I was there, it really just felt like home. I clicked with the environment. … This is everything. I know not everyone gets the opportunity that I have. Those opportunities come and go, I am just glad to have mine.”
While the opportunity to play football at the collegiate level is an honor, every Eagles athlete who signed on Wednesday praised their time at Joplin and how it helped elevate their play for the chance to continue playing football.
“It means a lot,” Thomas said. “I am going to miss it. It is real emotional. This was my last year playing for Joplin, and I have pretty much been playing for them my whole life—from flag football to high school. When you think about it, it just flew by. It’s sad, but I’m happy to have the memories.”
WEBB CITY, Mo. — Nine Webb City High School seniors made their college decisions official by signing letters of intent on National Signing Day.
Eight of the nine student-athletes attended a signing ceremony in front of a large group of students, coaches, parents and grandparents on Wednesday afternoon inside the Cardinal Dome.
Football players Gary Clinton, Jaystin Smith and Grant Goltra were joined by softball players Haidyn Berry, Alyssa Jennings and Bri Batson, while track and field athlete Luke Brumit and cheerleader Kassidy Perkins also put pen to paper.
Football player Jacob Shonk also made his decision official on Wednesday, but he was unable to attend the event at WCHS.
“I look forward to seeing how they all progress in college,” Webb City athletics director and football coach John Roderique said of the signees.
The football players played key roles as the Cardinals won a state championship in 2019 and advanced to the semifinals in ’20. Of course, Webb City’s softball team was the state runner-up this past fall.
Webb City football players Jaystin Smith, Gary Clinton and Grant Goltra are pictured with their family members during Wednesday’s signing ceremony inside the Cardinal Dome. Jacob Shonk was unable to attend the signing ceremony. Photo by Jason Peake.
GARY CLINTON—MISSOURI STATE
A 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end, Clinton signed with Missouri State and head coach Bobby Petrino.
“As a kid, it was my dream to go to the next level and play Division-I ball,” Clinton said. “To have this opportunity is a blessing. I’m excited.”
Clinton committed to Arkansas State last July, but after a coaching change at the school, Clinton de-committed in mid-December. He found his future home by late January.
“I decommitted from Arkansas State and that night Missouri State contacted me,” Clinton said. “I knew they wanted me. It’s a great opportunity. I need to get stronger and faster. I want to play early and often at Missouri State.”
“That was quite an unusual situation,” Roderique said. “He had his plans set, but there was a coaching change. It changed everything. That’s the reality of FBS college football. But Missouri State was one of the first schools he talked to and I know he feels real good about going there.”
Known for his superb blocking, Clinton earned all-state, all-district and all-conference recognition as a senior after hauling in 12 passes for 224 yards (18.7 yards per reception). A three-year starter, Clinton recorded 25 receptions for 448 yards and three touchdowns in his career.
Clinton has been listed as a three-star recruit by ESPN and rated as a two-star prospect by both 247sports.com and Rivals. Clinton held offers from Arkansas State, Army, Illinois State, Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois, Western Illinois, Southeast Missouri and Eastern Illinois.
JAYSTIN SMITH—MISSOURI SOUTHERN
A 6-3, 215-pound linebacker, Smith inked with Missouri Southern.
“I’m just grateful to have the opportunity to play at the next level,” Smith said. “I’m ready to be a Lion.”
Smith made 69 tackles as a senior and earned all-COC recognition.
Of course, MSSU is expected to name a new head coach soon.
“They’ve got a really nice facility and they’re getting a new coaching staff coming in that will hopefully turn the program around,” Smith said. “I think the new coach will get the program back on track. I think I’ll have the opportunity to play and I’m going to do my best.”
Whether he’s at outside linebacker or defensive end, Smith said he’ll play wherever the coaching staff needs him.
“My goal is to be the best player and person I can be,” Smith said. “I’m blessed to be able to play at the collegiate level because not many kids have that opportunity. I wouldn’t be where I am at without WCHS.”
GRANT GOLTRA—PITTSBURG STATE
A 6-4, 285-pound offensive lineman who earned all-state, all-district and all-conference honors, Goltra signed with Pittsburg State.
“Knowing they put a lot of value into the offensive line really means a lot and that was one of the main reasons I wanted to go there,” Goltra said. “As an offensive lineman, I know Coach (Brian) Wright and Coach (Bryan) Larson have my back. It’s an exciting thing. I’ve met a lot of the other offensive linemen, they’re quality dudes and I’m excited to get after it.”
Goltra noted Pittsburg State’s tradition and gameday atmosphere were big selling points.
“That Gorilla Walk gives me chills,” he said. “That’s something I’m really looking forward to. And the program overall is incredibly respected. To join the winningest D-II program is an honor.”
Goltra is continuing the tradition of former Cardinals suiting up for the Gorillas.
“Knowing that I’ll be surrounded by dudes I already know will make it a whole lot easier coming in,” Goltra said.
Goltra and Smith will be close to home at rival schools.
“It’s a great thing anytime you have kids close enough where you can go see them play,” Roderique said.
JACOB SHONK—UPPER IOWA
A 6-0, 170-pound wide receiver, Shonk signed with Upper Iowa University.
“It means a lot because we have built an excellent recruiting class and there’s an excellent new coaching staff coming in,” Shonk told SoMo Sports. “They’re calling us the ‘new-look Peacocks.’ It’ll be a lot of fun and I can’t wait.”
Shonk added playing at the next level was very important to him.
“It means the world to me because I’ve been doubted my whole life,” he said. “I’ve always been told I’m not good enough, so it means an insane amount to make my dreams come true today.”
Shonk also thanked his coaches.
“It meant a lot to be a part of the best football program in Missouri,” he said.
Webb City softball players Alyssa Jennings, Haidyn Berry and Bri Batson are pictured with their family members during Wednesday’s signing ceremony at Webb City High School. Photo by Jason Peake.
HAIDYN BERRY—CENTRAL MISSOURI
The two-time Central Ozark Conference Softball Player of the Year is taking her talents to Central Missouri to suit up for the Jennies.
“It’s a family atmosphere there,” Berry said of UCM. “I really enjoyed playing at Webb City and it’s similar at Central Missouri. Everybody loves each other there and that’s what I wanted. I was thinking about throwing the javelin somewhere, but I couldn’t give up the softball route. It’s been my thing since I was eight-years-old, and I’m so excited for this opportunity.”
A standout in the circle and at the plate, Berry played a crucial role as the Cardinals finished as the state runner-up and went 27-6.
In the circle, Berry earned 25 wins and struck out 234 batters. Berry hit .444 with 48 hits, 49 RBI and a school record 18 home runs. The 18 homers rank second-best all-time in Missouri.
Berry, who may play first base when she’s not pitching, will now look to set records at the next level.
“I’m going to earn my spot there, work hard and put in the time,” Berry said. “I’m going to do whatever it takes at the next level. At this point, if I touch the field then it’s important to me. I want to play in the MIAA.”
ALYSSA JENNINGS—CROWDER
A two-year starter for the Cardinals, Jennings signed to play softball at Crowder College.
“I’m super excited,” Jennings said. “Their program is great, their facilities are nice and their coaches are amazing. And their softball team is ranked 20th in the nation.”
An infielder/outfielder who earned all-COC and all-district recognition, Jennings hit .368 with 32 hits, 28 runs, 23 RBI and nine homers as a senior. She hit .345 with 23 runs scored and 22 RBI in ‘19.
Jennings hopes to contribute nicely at Crowder.
“My goal is to see the field and go to the next level,” Jennings said. “Working my whole life to become the softball player I am and being able to continue to the next level is a blessing. Putting in the hours and days into the sport I love has finally paid off. This will be an amazing opportunity.”
BRI BATSON—NEOSHO COUNTY
Batson inked with the Neosho County Community College softball program.
“It means a lot to sign because it shows all my hard work paid off and I get to compete at the next level,” Batson said.
Batson noted NCCC felt like the best fit for her.
“The coaches there are very nurturing, a lot like here,” Batson said. “They’re going to push me and I can’t wait. They’re going to make me a better player. I want to go there and work hard.”
Batson launched a memorable game-tying home run in the state championship game. Batson hit .250 with 21 hits, 18 runs and 13 RBI this past fall.
Batson may play catcher or third base for the Panthers.
“I just want to thank everyone who didn’t let me give up on my dream,” Batson told SoMo Sports.
Webb City’s Luke Brumit and Kassidy Perkins are pictured. Brumit signed to compete in track and field at Missouri Southern, while Perkins signed to cheer for Ottawa University in Kansas. Photo by Jason Peake.
LUKE BRUMIT—MISSOURI SOUTHERN
Brumit, a standout high jumper, will join the Missouri Southern men’s track and field program.
“I liked how close it was to home and I liked the coaches there,” Brumit said. “I’m very excited. The coaching staff was very welcoming.”
Brumit said he’ll compete in the decathlon at MSSU.
“I only know three of the events right now, so I have to learn how to do seven more,” Brumit said. “I’m willing to put in the work.”
As a sophomore, Brumit finished 14th in the high jump at the Class 4 state track meet. Of course, there was no track season last spring.
Brumit, who is currently a starter on the Webb City basketball team, said he’s thrilled he’s getting the opportunity to compete in track and field at the next level.
“One of my dreams is coming true,” he said. “I won’t have to give up one of the sports I love.”
KASSIDY PERKINS—OTTAWA
Perkins signed to join the cheerleading squad at Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas.
“I was three-years-old when my parents put me in my first cheer class, not realizing they would be shaping my entire life by this decision,” Perkins told SoMo Sports. “I fell in love with a sport that pushed me past my comfort zone, always gave me a purpose and surrounded me with an unbreakable bond with so many people. This opportunity at Ottawa means the world to me.”
Perkins noted the importance of the day for all the signees.
“It means the world to me knowing that all of us have dedicated our lives to what we do,” Perkins said.
Overcoming an early deficit, McAuley Catholic’s boys rode a huge third quarter to a lopsided victory on Wednesday night at the Mercy/Warrior Classic at McAuley Catholic.
The Bulldogs led 16-6 at the end of the first quarter, and Carl Junction led 23-21 at halftime.
McAuley erupted for 29 points in the game-changing third period while holding Carl Junction to five.
Up 50-28, the Warriors outscored the Bulldogs 10-5 in the fourth quarter for the final margin.
Daniel Wagner scored 21 points for the Warriors, while Thomas Black added 19. Matthew Dohmen scored nine.
Ky Warren scored six points for Carl Junction JV, while Jett Hocut and Nathan Planchon scored five points apiece.
McAuley (7-10) plays College Heights at 8 tomorrow night.
COLLEGE HEIGHTS GIRLS 59, THOMAS JEFFERSON 30
The Cougars led 17-8 at the end of the first period. After a 22-4 third period, College Heights held a 45-19 advantage.
Grace Bishop scored 18 points to lead the Cougars, while Catie Secker added 15 and Jayli Johnson had 10.
Gabbi Hiebert scored 17 points for Thomas Jefferson.
College Heights, now 18-2, advanced to the championship game on Saturday against an opponent to be determined.
JOPLIN JV BOYS 66, SHELDON 18
Joplin’s junior varsity squad rolled in this one.
The Eagles led 24-0 at the end of the first quarter. Joplin was up 46-10 at halftime.
Brantley Morris led the Eagles with 19 points. He made five 3-pointers.
Zayshon Hugley added 13 points for Joplin, while Hobbs Campbell scored nine points.
William Chapman scored seven points to lead Sheldon.
REGULAR SEASON GAMES
MOUNT VERNON GIRLS 83, SARCOXIE 34
Lacy Stokes poured in 29 points and Ellie Johnston added 23 points to lead the Mountaineers.
Stokes hit three 3-pointers, while Johnston hit two. Lisa Kreuger added 14 points for Mount Vernon.
Annette Ramirez scored 21 points for Sarcoxie.
Mount Vernon led 29-10 by the end of the first quarter, and the Mountaineers were up comfortably 52-16 at the break.
