8 Phoenix Sign to Play College Sports

Caption: Eight Lincoln-way North student-athletes participated in the National Letter of Intent ceremony: Elyse Pratl, Carley Hamann, Haley Ruch, Melissa Martineck, Amanda Jackson, Kyle Ostrowski, Liam Jenkins and Mosh Mutter held at the school . The fall signing ceremony for the student-athletes was enjoyed by a large group of families, friends, and high school sports teams.

Lincoln-Way North Athletic Department hosted their fall college signing day on Wednesday, November 19, in Phoenix Hall, at the North High School.

Eight Lincoln-Way North student- athletes participated in the National Letter of Intent ceremony: Elyse Pratl, Carley Hamann, Haley Ruch, Melissa Martineck, Amanda Jackson, Kyle Ostrowski, Josh Mutter and Liam Jenkins.

As Matt Lyke, North Athletic Director, opened the ceremony he addressed the student-athletes, fellow students and families.

“We are extremely proud of our student athletes and honored to be a part of the experience,” Lyke said. “You have always represented Lincoln-Way North High school in a positive way, and it is much appreciated.”

“Through hard work in athletics and academics you have been granted the opportunity to pursue your dreams. As we are sad to see our seniors go; we are excited about your future in college athletics.”

Elyse Pratl will be swimming for Illinois State University at Normal, Illinois. Her high school coach is Kendra Will. Elyse will major in the sciences to become an athletic trainer.

Carley Hamann will play softball for Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla Missouri. Her Lincoln-Way North coach is Aimee Lonigro. Carley will be an engineering major next year.

Haley Ruch will play softball for Augustana College, Rock Island, Illinois. Her North coach is Aimee Lonigro. Haley is undecided about her major.

Melissa Martineck will play softball for Lindenwood University – Belleville, Illinois. Her high school coach is Aimee Lonigro. Melissa will major in biology with plans to go into dentistry.

Amanda Jackson will run Cross Country and Track for Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights, Illinois. Her Lincoln-Way North coach is Amy Jacobucci. Amanda plans on majoring in nursing at Trinity Christian College.

Kyle Ostrowski will play baseball for Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. His L-W North coach is Mitch Nowicki. Kyle plans to major in business and finance.

Josh Mutter will play baseball for Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois. His high school coach is Mitch Nowicki. Josh plans to major in special education.

Liam Jenkins will play baseball for Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona. His L-W North coach is Mitch Nowicki. Liam will major in education. His goal is to be a high school teacher and coach baseball.

“We at Lincoln-Way North are so proud of you and what you have accomplished here,” said Dr. Mark Cohen, principal. “We want you all to remember that North is your home, you are always welcome back here. We all wish you the best of luck and congratulations.