FRANKLIN COUNTY High School (FCHS) is sending a group of student athletes off to what they hope will be both a successful collegiate and athletic experience.
Eight students of the high school were recently signed to colleges for athletic scholarships that included soccer, softball, track and field, cheer, football, and baseball.
While an honor to sign with a college to continue their athletic career, according to FCHS Athletic Director Kelly Kennedy, such doesn’t happen overnight.
“We have a great guidance program for all students interested in pursuing college education,” she explained. “As for our student-athletes, it is often a very tough decision to make because there are so many unknown variables when choosing to participate in college athletics. We are fortunate to have many coaches on staff that have played sports at the college level, so positive mentorship from coach to athlete is crucial for these kids. We encourage our student- athletes to build relationships with many coaches on our staff in order to gain valuable perspective from a multitude of sources.”
Kennedy added that there are a number of things for students to consider when selecting a school to attend. Considerations that she feels will help each prospective student make the most of their decision.
“While there are so many things to consider when choosing a college, I usually tell my students to pick the one that feels the most comfortable,” she said. “Where do you see yourself fitting in at this college? Does it feel like a place that you can be happy at for the next four years? Will this college give you the best chance of a positive college experience? If the answer to any of those questions is “no” then you have not yet found the right fit for you!”
The signing process is also something that she and the athletic staff try to make special for each prospective player.
“Any time we have a student sign to play college athletics, I feel a tremendous sense of pride. I was once in that position myself, so I personally understand that feeling of success and achievement. For so many athletes, signing to college is the end result of years of hard work, effort, dedication, perseverance, and so much more. That alone is something to be extremely proud of.”
She also added that signings often include family, friends and teammates in attendance.
“When we have a signee, we allow teammates and a number of friends to attend the signing, not just to support that athlete but to hopefully encourage others to strive for a level of greatness they may think is outside of their current ability. A freshman who is watching a senior sign may think, “That can be me one day,” and work harder than they have before to achieve that new dream.”
Now wrapping up her first year as athletic director, Kennedy said she is “proud” to be a part of such a prestigious program and looks forward to what the future has to hold.
“I can say that I am very proud to be a part of our student athletes as a whole,” she said. “We have seen a high number of our students attend state competitions this year as well as achieve in other ways outside of the classroom. We have smart, creative, driven, kind student athletes here at FCHS, and it has been a pleasure watching them grow this past year. While it is always tough to say goodbye to the graduating class, I know that we have many things to look forward to with our returning and new high schoolers next year.” GN
