Four of Santa Fe’s outstanding student-athletes from both volleyball and softball participated in a college signing day on November 16. During the signing, they looked back on their journey and thanked people who helped them along the way.

There were four girls who signed to play college sports. Seniors, Katelyn Branson, Elise Diamond and Ava Newby all signed on with various colleges and universities to continue playing volleyball at the next level. Senior Bailey Fowler signed with Connors State to continue playing softball.

Elise was a first-year student at Santa Fe. She fit in well with the team and was thankful for the opportunity to come to Santa Fe.

Ava Newby played three years at Santa Fe and showed improvement every year.

“She’s a very hard worker, kind of a gym rat.” said head volleyball Coach Will Ethridge.

Katelyn signed with Southern Nazarene University, Elise signed with Oklahoma Baptist University and Ava signed with Oklahoma Panhandle State University. They each expressed their gratitude for the opportunity they have been given and for their time at Santa Fe.

“I want to thank my teammates for always being there for me, especially at times when I needed them the most.” Branson said, “I would also like to thank all of my coaches who have continued to help me accomplish my goals and push me to be a better person and athlete, especially all the Santa Fe coaches.”

Bailey Fowler is a hard worker who leaves it all out on the field. She had a .430 on-base percentage and a .370 batting average. Her coach, Rhonda Lawson, had only good things to say about her and looked forward to seeing her progress in college.

Coach Ethridge and Coach Lawson took turns speaking about the various athletes they had coached. They showed gratitude for their players and congratulated them on their athletic journey. They were both excited to see their players excel at the next level.

“I couldn’t be more proud.” Ethridge said.