Five Wolves commit to compete at the college level

Jett Birsner, Co-Editor in Chief

On Nov. 9, five Santa Fe student-athletes signed college scholarships to continue their athletic careers at the college level. Coaches, family members and peers gathered to celebrate these student-athletes’ accomplishments.

These five students represent three sports that Santa Fe offers: Golf, Basketball and Track. Rhett Hughes and CJ Phillips play golf, Sarah Gorman and Jayden Cincotta play basketball and Foster Penhall runs track. They are all attending different colleges in different states.

Rhett Hughes has played varsity golf all four years of his high school career. Hughes is a two-time Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference (COAC) all-conference player and placed 10th at state. He will continue to play golf at the University of Nebraska.

“He works very hard, and he’s a tremendous competitor,” said Head Boys Golf Coach Dallas Wigington.

CJ Phillips is also a four-year member of the Santa Fe varsity golf team. He placed 28th at state and was one of the highest contributors to the success of Santa Fe’s boy’s golf program over the past four years as he does a great job of setting an example for the younger players. He signed with the University of Central Missouri.

Sarah Gorman is a power forward on the girl’s varsity basketball team. Throughout her high school career, she has exhibited an impressive work ethic and has led her team by example. She will continue to play basketball at Palm Beach State College in Florida.

“She’s dedicated to her teammates and to the game of basketball,” said Head Girls Basketball Coach Kyle Axton.

Jayden Cincotta played Varsity basketball in his sophomore and junior years. Last season, he led the team in scoring with 11.2 points per game, and his scoring helped lead Santa Fe to the semi-final round in the state tournament. Unfortunately, Jayden suffered an ACL injury prior to his senior season and is out for the entirety of the year. Once he graduates, Jayden will resume his basketball career at South Western Oklahoma State University.

“What Jayden has been able to do as a player and as a person is improve,” said Head Boys Basketball Coach Troy Lallemand. “I’m just so proud of him.”

Last but not least is Foster Penhall, who signed with Pitt State University. Foster has been a four-year member of the varsity track team. Last year, he placed fifth at state in the 400-meter dash, and this year, he hopes to break the school record for that event.

“I’m honored and privileged and blessed to coach him,” said Head Track Coach Wes Crosson.

These Santa Fe student-athletes appreciate their time as wolves and hope for continued success at the next level.