Today is national signing day for college-bound student athletes and in a short ceremony in the Upper School commons, three CWA seniors this morning formally declared their intent to compete in collegiate athletics at specific schools.  Natalie Powell will play Division I women’s soccer for Saint Mary’s College of California.  Max LaBerge will run cross country, indoor track and outdoor track for Williams College.  Megan Kelley will play women’s tennis for Hamilton College.  Proud parents, siblings, coaches, teammates, classmates and school administrators gathered for the signing event.

Powell was named the Nisqually League player of the year last fall and the state 1A goalkeeper of the year.

“I am so proud of Natalie,” says Jim Dempsey, head girls soccer coach.  “I am happy that she is following her dreams.  Natalie deserves everything that she has earned!  She has been a devoted member of the girls soccer team at CWA for the past four years, and has given her all to our program.  She has been a valuable leader to all and will be missed, but we wish her the best as she moves on to play at the next level.   Go Gaels!”

LaBerge will defend his state title in the 3200 meter track and field event this spring.

“Max completed a successful junior track season with a 9:39 victory in the 3200 meters, and followed that up with a 3rd place finish at the Washington State 1A Cross Country Championship this past fall,” says Ryan Johnson, head cross country coach and assistant track coach. “Max ran cross country and track for four years at Charles Wright, and played a big role in team podium finishes for cross country (2007 and 2008) and track (2009).  His passion for running is delirious and his training zen-like; much of the offseason he spends cruising solo on long runs in Point Defiance and the North Fort.  Max never complains or makes excuses before or after a competition.   He is the quiet leader, seeking perfection with performance and relishing in the fact that his actions speak much louder than words.”

Kelley hopes to make a fourth trip to the state tennis tournament before she heads off to college.

“Megan has been a wonderful and talented athlete for our girls tennis team,” says Reini Vanderhyde.  She is an excellent leader and role model for our younger players as she leads by example.  Megan has proven herself on and off the courts and she will be representing us as our co-captain in 2010.  She will be an excellent addition to Hamilton’s team and she will be missed by this tennis program.”

We’ll share more about each of these student’s college decision in the coming weeks.