NEW ROCHELLE, NY — National Signing day, the day on which student-athletes can officially commit to schools for the next stage of their careers, took place on February 1st. Several Monroe College student-athletes took part in the signing, signifying the strength and rigor of our athletic programs.
The Men’s Soccer team, which advanced to the 2016 National Championship game and held the #1 ranking for much of the season, had three players move on to four-year institutions. Felipe Hideki and Gabriel Machado are both headed to Big East schools, Hideki to Seton Hall University and Machado to St. John’s University. Ignacio Goya chose Nova Southeastern University, an NCAA Division II member of the Sunshine State Conference.
Women’s Soccer had another strong season, with a 9-1-3 overall mark and a #10 national ranking. Sophomores Maia Williams and Elysa Virella committed to Big 12 member University of Kansas and ACC member Boston College, respectively. Additionally, Brooke Smith is undecided, but has several NCAA DI offers.
Cross Country and Track and Field also had a few members sign with other schools. Leading the way was All-American runner Susan Ejore, who chose to continue her running at University of Oregon. Her classmate, Nokuthula Dlamini, accepted a scholarship to Texas Tech University. Finally, sprinter Zakiya Denoon opted for a scholarship to SEC power Louisiana State University.
Two players on the Volleyball team have given verbal commitments to schools, but those are not legally binding. Football is wrapping up their signings as well, and anticipates having over 20 student-athletes move on to four-year institutions from every level of college football.
The dozens of Mustangs that are moving on to four-year institutions represent the culmination of the student-athletes’ hard work during their time at Monroe. As they move forward, Monroe College wishes them the best and reminds them: “Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang.”