10 Dexter Student-Athletes Commit to Universities During National Signing Day

Excitement filled the air at on Wednesday as 10 student athletes participated in National Signing Day activities.

National Signing Day is the day that high schools seniors across the country officially plight their troth to a college sports program.

Dreadnaughts Edward Reny (Wayne State University), Tucker Whitley (Siena Heights University), Charlie Sleder (Hope College) and Mike Mioduszewski (Eastern Michigan University) were recruited for the collegiate football program.

Claire Tewksbury (University of Michigan) and Micaela Conter (Central Michigan University) were recruited for collegiate track teams.

Drew Barnes (Alma College) has been recruited for the wrestling program beginning fall 2012. Caitlin Greeley (Robert Morris University) also received a field hockey scholarship.

Whitley said signing with Siena Heights was no small decision.

"I had a pretty big decision between Siena and Western Michigan University, but I knew I could make a difference in the classroom and on the field at Siena," he said.

Whitley said he wants to study criminal justice and eventually work as a private investigator.

Reny said he chose Wayne State University after researching the university's academic and sports programs.

"They are going in the right direction with their football program and I'm very excited to be a part of it," he said.

During Wednesday's press conference, Reny offered words of advice for his fellow underclassmen.

"You have to work hard both on and off the field," he said. "In the back of your mind, you know someone is working just as hard, if not harder. You have to give 110 percent."

Claire Tewksbury, a member of the DHS varsity track team, agreed.

"You have to be a student first," she said. "You can be the best player on the field, but it doesn't matter to any university if you are ineligible to play for them."

Coaches, friends and family members were on hand Wednesday to watch the athletes sign letters of intent.

"I'm so proud of my girls," DHS soccer coach Scott Forrester said.

Victoria Pepper, Dexter's varsity soccer co-captain, signed with Purdue University in Fort Wayne, IN and Sarah Silvasi signed with Valparaiso University.

“Victoria lays it all out during training and in the game she does whatever is needed to help her team win," Forrester said.

Coach Brian Baird said he was impressed with all of the students' efforts.

"I love coaching in Dexter," he said. "It's not about one sports program. It's about all of our kids working hard to achieve their dream."