Holton Student-Athletes Celebrate College Commitments on Signing Day

 

Holton-Arms is proud to celebrate eight student-athletes who will continue their athletic and academic pursuits at Division I and Division III colleges and universities. 

“Signing Day is a meaningful milestone for these student-athletes and a reflection of their dedication, resilience, and love of sport,” said Graham Westerberg, Director of Athletics and Physical Education. “We are incredibly proud of the way they have balanced rigorous academics with high-level athletics, and we look forward to cheering them on as they continue their journeys at the collegiate level.”

Division I

Dylan A., Crew, Indiana University

Dylan A. ’26 began coxing for the Holton Crew Team her freshman year, building on an earlier familiarity with the sport. “I always knew a little about rowing from family and friends, but decided to try it for myself at Holton,” she said. “I immediately fell in love with the strong team culture and the shared mentality that we are literally all in the same boat.” 

Through her experience, Dylan developed strong time-management skills, while balancing the demands of academics and athletics, skills she will carry with her to the collegiate level. “I would like to thank Coach Acerra for supporting me on and off the water and guiding me through the recruitment process,” she added.

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Morning practices on the Potomac with the sun rising over the monuments.”

 

Oma N., Swimming, American University

Oma N. ’26 began swimming at age four. " I started because of my fear of the water," she said, "but it developed into a passion. I joined my first club team at six."

In addition to swimming, Oma competed in track before focusing solely on the pool following an injury her sophomore year. "Playing sports at Holton helped keep me grounded and organized," she added.

Favorite Holton athletics memory: "Going to Silver Diner with the team after each WMPSSDLs meet and building lasting friendships with teammates."

 

 

Division III

Alexis A., Volleyball, Albright College

Alexis A. ’26 began playing volleyball in the seventh grade and deepened her commitment to the sport through both Holton's JV team and a club travel team. "At first," she explained, "it was just something fun to do, but by the end of sophomore year, I realized it could open new opportunities for me."

She is excited to continue her athletic career at the collegiate level and to become part of a new community. "I love volleyball, so getting to keep playing at a higher level feels like a natural extension."

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Definitely Blue-White Night—the energy in the gym and the support from the community made it unforgettable.”

 

Hannah W., Softball, Swarthmore College

Hannah W. ’26 began playing softball at age eight but her version for playing at the collegiate level took shape in the fifth grade. "Our coaches challenged us to tell them who the winner of the college softball world series was," Hannah explained. "I was inspired by the players' energy and camaraderie."

From that point on, Hannah committed herself to improving her game, including daily practice during the COVID quarantine. "I would go to the field with my dad to pitch and get reps," she said.

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Being welcomed onto the varsity team as a freshman and forming friendships with upperclassmen right away.”

 

Kai W., Tennis, Rochester Institute of Technology

Kai W. ’26 discovered tennis after being inspired by a statue of the Williams sisters at the African-American History Museum in third grade. "Seeing a video of their strength and presence on the court inspired me to try the sport for myself," she said.

It was during her freshman year at Holton that Kai realized she wanted to continue playing tennis at the collegiate level. "I'm excited to be part of a team environment and to continue growing as a player."

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Experiencing what it was like to be a part of a group of people working towards a common goal and always supporting each other.”

 

Kamora M., Volleyball, Ithaca College

Kamora M. ’26 made the transition from competitive cheerleader to volleyball in seventh grade, embracing the opportunity to earn a new sport. Looking for a new challenge, Kamora started going to volleyball clinics with out-of-school friends. "I was nervous at first, but the coaches thought I had natural talent and encouraged me to keep going," she said.

Her dedication has led her to the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Weekly ice baths during my sophomore year—challenging, but one of the most memorable team bonding experiences.”

 

Lana C., Volleyball, Hamilton College

Lana C. ’26 began playing volleyball at age 14 and quickly developed a strong connection to the sport. "My dad introduced me to volleyball, and I immediately loved both the game and the team environment," she said.

As her skills and confidence grew, so did her desire to continue playing beyond high school.

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Senior night—celebrating my teammates and family made it incredibly meaningful.”

 

 

Remy C., Field Hockey, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Remy C. ’26 began playing field hockey in elementary school and made it her main sport in eighth grade. Her experience at Holton helped shape both her athletic and academic aspirations.

"Playing at Holton inspired me to pursue field hockey in college," she said. "Holton also helped me explore non-sport areas of interest and led me to want to pursue my interest in aerospace engineering."

Favorite Holton athletics memory: “Playing on Blue-White Night against Stone Ridge!”