February 6^th, better known as National Signing Day, could be the turning point in many young athletes lives. National Signing Day is when prospective college athletes sign their Nations Letter of Intent (NLI) to their respective colleges. The NLI requires a signature from the prospective athlete and a parent or guardian.

National Signing Day at NCHS is a proud day for numerous Normal Community athletes. Athletic director, Andy Turner, reveals his view on the day; “people from outside our school view our school as a prominent source that can help other schools later in the future.” The Ironmen legacy will be carried on through the seven athletes that signed their letters of intent, and many others who will give their intent in the near future.

 Randy Heideman

Three-sport athlete Randy Heideman, will continue his sports career playing football for the Redhawks of Miami (of Ohio) University.  Miami University in Oxford Ohio will serve as Randy’s new home field for the next four years. Randy reveals, “I am excited to go in the summer, I leave June 20^th to start workouts and classes.”

 Carly Pederson

School and inter city cross country record holder Carly Pederson, will continue her running career at Northern Illinois University. Carly will be running for the Lady Huskie cross country team as well as the women’s track team. Carly decided on NIU because she “really liked the coach and they do a good job of balancing academics and sports.”

 Brittany Hull

Brittany Hull signed her National Letter of Intent to the University of North Carolina at Chappel Hill. The UNC Tar heels lady track and field team will gain a new member. Brittany is a nationally ranked pole-vaulter and will vault for the Tar Heels next year.  Brittany selected UNC to pursue her track and field career due to the fact she “just loved everything.”

Logan Lay

Logan will continue his education and football career at Robert Morris University. Logan chose RMU because it was close to home and still allowed him the opportunity to continue his football career. Logan exclaims he is “ready for the next chapter of life.” And for him, that will be playing for the Eagles in Arlington Heights.

 Garret Wooten

NCHS football captain Garret Wooten, plans to attend the University of South Dakota in Vermillion this fall. Garret signed his letter of intent and will play football for the university.

 Bethany Steffes

Swimmer Bethany Steffens, plans to continue her swimming career as a member of the Lady Lions swimming team at Lindenwood University. Bethany chose to sign her letter of intent to Lindenwood University because the university was close to home and she liked the team and coach. Bethany also reveals she is excited the school is “close to home.”

 Jowonis Edwards

Jowonis Edwards plans to play football at Robert Morris University in Arlington Heights next fall. RMU extended Jowonis the opportunity to continue his football career. The university is a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, which will present Jowonis with great opportunities.

As we congratulate these athletes for their commitment to their respective schools, we also thank them for their time spent bettering our schools athletics. Good luck to all athletes who will take opportunities to play college sports.