The University Academy seniors who play fall sports were recently honored for their years of commitment to the UA athletic department.
There were 20 seniors recognized. The football seniors honored were Marquis Byers, Keaton Davis, Keith Haltiwanger, Dawan Hammons, Xavier Hoskins, Keon Johnson, Zha’Sean Taylor and Jamin Wilson. For volleyball, the seniors were Aliah Bilberry, Ashlee Ford, Ja’lynne Johnson, Raven Kemp and Neveah Leeks. Senior cheerleaders who were recognized were Akyra Hearron, Arilynn Howard, Taylor Lane, Aaliyah Lee, Tiana Leverette, Kaelyn Pointer and Courtne’ Speed.
Volleyball had its senior night on Oct. 10 before the varsity game against Summit Christian Academy. Football and cheerleading had their senior night celebrations on Oct. 12 before the football game against St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School.
As the student athletes were recognized, their future plans and colleges were acknowledged, as well. They got to line up and walk with their family members and even received gift baskets, posters or flowers during this process.
UA senior cheerleader Courtne’ Speed said, “My experience with senior night was very bittersweet for me. I felt special when all of my family came and supported me.”
Another senior, volleyball player Ashlee Ford, shared similar thoughts.
“Senior night was so fun. I felt very loved by my peers,” Ford said
Even though the games did not end as expected, the seniors still had a good time. The football team lost, 15-17, and the volleyball team dropped a hard fight. These seniors will be missed when they leave, but their memories will continue.
Ford said, “My favorite memory is always traveling with the team. There is always positivity, and we find ways to enjoy each other’s company.”
Speed said, “My favorite memory while playing this sport was during junior year when me and my cheermates battled Van Horn.”
Sometimes special sports memories stretch back to when athletes were younger and first starting to get involved.
Senior football player Keon Johnson said, “My favorite memory of playing football is going to the championship when I was 10 years old. That was when I fell in love with the sport.”
This year, there was an extra challenge added in because the seniors had just recently returned from their senior trip, but they still gave the games their all. Some only had one or two practices to get back into the swing of things, but they played their best.
The next group of senior athletes to be recognized will be those who participate in winter sports. Stay tuned!
