Eleven Oxford athletes made their commitment to play sports beyond high school official at a letter of intent ceremony held Tuesday, April 11.

A total of 12 Wildcats were invited to attend the ceremony.

The athletes, students who had high achievements in Oxford athletics, committed to attending colleges of their choice during the ceremony.

After being introduced and praised by high school sport coordinators, coaches and school administrators, including Oxford High School Athletic Director Cole Andrews, students simultaneously signed letters of intent provided by colleges interested in their attendance.

The letters also secured athletic scholarships for many of the students.

“Obviously, we have a lot of great athletes. But, more importantly, we have great community support and parents to allow having this many kids sign in one day. It’s a really neat experience,” said Andrews.

Adam Bell, who plays lacrosse and was not present at the ceremony, will be attending Hope College.

Soccer athletes were Sophia Bell (Bethel College) and Emma Gordon (Adrian).

“Sophia is a tremendous worker, on and off the field. I am proud to be part of her senior year and I know that she will be successful at the next level. It has been a pleasure to coach her and see her expand into leadership roles,” said Head Coach Philip Kimmel. “Emma is a great player and leader on the field. She brings character to the team and helps to make the game fun.”

Football athletes who signed that day were Drake Barry (Lawrence Technological), Ryan Motala (Wayne State) and Ethan Williams (Northern Michigan).

“You have to give it to those young men for being able to play at that level. They really worked hard in the weight room, they were very good leaders, they were just fine young men to deal with…. All three are very, very hard-working kids. They’ve got great work ethic… all three of them have (good grades) and they’re strong,” said Head Coach Bud Rowley.

Although college football can be more challenging than high school football, Rowley added he has the utmost confidence in the three Wildcat athletes.

“They’re going to be ready to play. It’s different… you’re not playing with high school kids anymore, you’re playing with men. All three of them will do a real good job,” he said.

Wildcat swimmer Lucas Sereno signed a letter of intent for Alma College.

Jordan Jadan, who played basketball in high school, will attend Kansas City College.

“It was very rewarding to see Jordan accept this scholarship,” said Head Coach Steve Laidlaw. “Jordan went through three Varsity coaches during his career at OHS and through it all he showed perseverance. He helped lead us to our record breaking season this year– so his perseverance not only paid off individually, but collectively.”

Other Wildcat athletes signing that day were lacrosse-player Spencer Petosky (Grand Valley), golfer Mackenzie Chaisson (Madonna), cheerleader Katie Romano (Rochester), and Madison Dinges, who played softball (Ferris).