Oak Forest HS Athletes Sign Letters of Intent

Oak Forest High School Seniors Josh Balinao, Brian Swanson, Alan Durham, Ahmad Ashkar, and Connor Rago signed letters of intent April 30 to play collegiate sports at universities throughout the Midwest.

Josh Balinao signed to play volleyball for North Central College in Naperville. He will be working as a setter on the volleyball team for Coach Kyle Exline. While at North Central, Balinao, the son of Tracy and Jeff Balinao, will be studying for his education degree with the idea that he will be a social studies teacher.

Brian Swanson signed to wrestle at Loras College in Iowa. He will be wrestling at the 141 or 149 weight class for Coach Randy Steward. Swanson, the son of Bob Swanson, will be studying kinesiology at Loras College.

Alan Durham signed to wrestle for McKendree University in Illinois. He will be wrestling in the 125 weight class for Coach James Kisgen. While at McKendree, Durham will be studying for his criminal justice degree. Durham is the son of Ralph Durham and Linda Misek.

Ahmad Ashkar signed to play football for St. Xavier University. Ashkar, the son of Najeh Ashkar and Khariah Ashkar, will be playing linebacker or safety on the football team for Coach Michael Feminas while studying at the university. He will be taking general education classes until he decides on a college major.

Connor Rago signed to play football for Butler University in Indiana. He will be a wide receiver for the football team under his coach. While at Butler, Rago will be studying pharmacy. He is the son of Dan and Lori Rago.

Oak Forest High School Principal Dr. Brad Sikora, Athletic Director Ron Towner, Assistant Athletic Director Jake Thormeyer, and Oak Forest High School Coaches Brian McDonough (football), Shawn Forst (wrestling), and Lee Rucinski (volleyball) were on hand to congratulate their players as they made this important commitment.

Congratulations to these talented student athletes!