One of the biggest decisions senior athletes have to make is to choose whether they are going to continue with their beloved sport, and if so, where at. This process is very complicated and can be stressful, however 12 of Papillion La Vista’s student athletes joined athletes all across the country as they signed to their colleges on national signing day.

Six out of the twelve athletes who signed were softball players, and among those was senior Presley Ivener, who had just committed to the University of Morningside in Sioux City, Iowa.

“The process leading up to signing was so stressful for me,” Ivener said. “It felt so relieving to finally make it official and know that recruiting is all over.” 

Making a big decision is difficult, especially when there are many colleges to choose from, but most seniors like Ivener have certain things they are looking for in their perfect match. 

“I chose Morningside because it feels like home to me,” Ivener said. 

Ivener’s teammate and fellow signee, senior Kamira Botos also was drawn to her college, Northern State, by multiple factors.

“When I visited I really liked the coaches and all the traditions they had,” Botos said. “I was really looking for a place that I liked and with a strong culture, and it helps that my teammate Peyton Hoelscher is also going there as well.” 

Signing can add pressure because it means you are fully committed to that college for at least your first season. 

“I would tell anyone who is going through the process to start earlier than later and that no matter what happens, your decision will come to you. Just trust your gut.” Botos said.

All in all, there is no doubt that these state champions will find success wherever they go, however after putting the pen to the paper, they are officially official.