Three Stories About Spring Sports College Commits

Seniors Camille Krekeler and Izzy Lash have committed to girls’ lacrosse at the collegiate level. Krekeler has committed to Division III North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, while Lash has committed to the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy St. Louis.
“The coach and the atmosphere at North Central College was very welcoming and positive,” Krekeler said. “I went on a visit my junior year and saw a lacrosse game, and it looked fun, and I knew I could play at that high level.”
Playing at the collegiate level doesn’t come without difficulties and challenges, but this inspired them to grow as players.
“I think it will definitely be more difficult to play and hopefully at a higher level,” Lash said. “I think it will inspire me to grow my own skill and get better as I learn. The level that everyone is playing will be at a higher and tougher level and I’m excited for that.”
Both Krekeler and Lash have high expectations for themselves in their rookie season. Their excitement bodes well for their start at the collegiate level.
“I’m very excited for my rookie season at the collegiate level,” Krekeler said. “I hope to improve the most on my overall game and confidence. It’s just a very cool opportunity not many people get to have.”
Breaden Witherbee and Will Gorski have committed to play Division III baseball at Westminster college. This hasn’t always been the plan for Gorski, but he knew this was the right decision.
“There were times I was unsure but ultimately I knew I wanted to,” Gorski said. “When the opportunity presented itself it made me realize it would be weird not to have baseball in my daily life at this point.”
Gorski has had encouragement from many people, but his mom has been his best support system.
“I think my mom always being there for both the good and bad games made a difference,” Gorski said. “Knowing I had someone rooting for me made playing the game more fun.”
Witherbee has always wanted to play at a higher level, so this opportunity is very impactful for him.
“I told myself, in high school, the goal was to play in college,” Witherbee said. “Eventually I worked hard enough to get there.”
Witherbee also had reassurance, with his biggest motivation being his dad.
“He’s always been by my side and pushed me to be better,” Witherbee said.
Witherbee’s self discipline to work hard is what got him to the collegiate level.
“What helped me stay focused was my passion for the game and the determination to reach my goal,” Witherbee said.
Senior Bryce Renz has announced his commitment to continue his academic and golf career at Rockhurst University on March 10. Renz expressed his excitement to travel around the country for tournaments.
“They travel to a lot of cool places and different states I’ve never been to, so being able to be a part of that and competing is what I’m excited for,” Renz said.
Renz has been coached by several coaches throughout his high school career. Renz’s coach sophomore year, Matt Havermale, knew what set Renz apart from others in the program.
“As far as a golfer goes, his dedication [sets him apart],” Havermale said. “He’s very dedicated to his craft, and knew from an early age that golf is what he wanted to do in college. He kind of set his mind on that and so you can see the progress he’s made in making that dream a reality.”
Renz has held himself to a high standard throughout his high school career, still exceeding expectations from coaches and fans. The rising star plans on keeping the momentum rolling, setting a high standard for himself at the next level.
“I want to be able to make an immediate impact on the team, do whatever I can to make the team successful and win the NCAA championship,” Renz said.
Senior Bryce Renz has announced his commitment to continue his academic and golf career at Rockhurst University on March 10. Renz expressed his excitement to travel around the country for tournaments.
“They travel to a lot of cool places and different states I’ve never been to, so being able to be a part of that and competing is what I’m excited for,” Renz said.
Renz has been coached by several coaches throughout his high school career. Renz’s coach sophomore year, Matt Havermale, knew what set Renz apart from others in the program.
“As far as a golfer goes, his dedication [sets him apart],” Havermale said. “He’s very dedicated to his craft, and knew from an early age that golf is what he wanted to do in college. He kind of set his mind on that and so you can see the progress he’s made in making that dream a reality.”
Renz has held himself to a high standard throughout his high school career, still exceeding expectations from coaches and fans. The rising star plans on keeping the momentum rolling, setting a high standard for himself at the next level.
“I want to be able to make an immediate impact on the team, do whatever I can to make the team successful and win the NCAA championship,” Renz said.
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