The graduating class of 2017 holds many student athletes who have committed to play a sport in college next year.

“I committed to play softball at Coe College and look forward to start practicing with the team in the fall,” Sydney Kinney, sr., said.

Choosing the right college can be hard sometimes, especially when you’re seeking the chance to play a sport.

“I knew Mount Mercy University was the place for me after touring the campus and meeting the baseball coaches,” Jake Olejniczak, sr., said.

Many athletes have had their minds set on playing sports in college since they were a little kid and for other athletes playing a sport at the collegiate level never crossed their mind.

“I never thought I would play a sport in college until the State Golf Tournament last spring when college coaches approached me. After the tournament, I then checked out Wartburg and decided it was the place for me,” Katie Choate, sr., said.

The opportunity to be involved in a sport doesn’t open for everyone but for these athletes, they are very anxious to start the next chapter in their lives.

“After having dinner with the team one night, I am so excited to meet all of my teammates next year,” Kinney said.

In addition to playing a sport, these athletes have a plan for their future following college.

“I will be majoring in psychology and biochem,” Choate said.

“I have decided to study conservation science,” Olejniczak said.

Upon graduation, many athletes have to start practices in the summer and are anticipating an early move in date. Wishing the best of luck to these students as they continue their athletic careers in college.