Eagles Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Hartland High School

Sports run deep in Hartland, and Hartland High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Eagles uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Hartland High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.

1. Mark Messner – All-American & NFL Defensive Lineman

Hartland High School alumnus Mark Messner went on to become an All-American at the University of Michigan, earning national recognition as one of the top defensive linemen in college football. He was later selected by the Los Angeles Rams and played in the NFL for one season before retiring from the sport due to injury. (Sources: National Football Foundation, Yahoo! Sports)

2. Eliana Bommarito – National & World Champion (Wrestling)

Former Eagle Eliana Bommarito emerged as one of the nation’s top girls wrestlers, winning multiple national titles and a world championship at the youth level. Her success helped establish Hartland as a recognized program in girls wrestling and set a competitive standard for athletes who followed. (Source: Hartland Wrestling)

3. Whitney Sollom – Collegiate Basketball Star (Michigan Wolverines)

A Hartland High School alumna, Whitney Sollom continued her basketball career at the University of Michigan as a guard for the Wolverines. In addition to competing at the NCAA Division I level, she earned Academic All-Big Ten recognition, reflecting her achievement both on the court and in the classroom. (Source: University of Michigan Athletics)

4. Alexis Fundich – School Record-Setting Gymnast

While competing for Hartland High School, Alexis Fundich set three school records in a single meet during the 2024–25 season, marking one of the most notable performances in program history. Her record-setting results and continued success into her senior year positioned her as a competitive collegiate gymnastics recruit. (Sources: Livingston Daily, NCSA College Recruiting)

5. Riley Hough – Gatorade Player of the Year (Cross Country)

Former Eagle Riley Hough earned Gatorade Player of the Year for 2021-2022 and was named Livingston County’s Male Athlete of the Year in 2022 following a dominant cross country career. He went on to compete collegiately at Michigan State University, continuing his development as a distance runner in the Big Ten. (Sources: Gatorade Player of the Year, Livingston Daily, Michigan State Athletics)

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