By Colton Dempsey ’20

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Being recruited to play college sports is the goal of many high school athletes. Now, nine different Strake Jesuit athletes have that honor. Following the signing day on February 5th, six new Crusaders have committed to college teams.

Last fall, three athletes officially signed: Dylan Campbell, to the University of Texas for baseball; Drew Leach, to Baylor for baseball; and Michael Artlip, to Penn State for gymnastics.

Three months later, six more student athletes are officially NCAA bound: Brian Johnson committed to St. Louis University for soccer; Josh Cashiola, to University of San Diego for football; Barclay Briggs, to Davidson for football; Denzel Blackwell, to Boston College for football; Luke Thorburn, to Case Western for basketball; and Job Trahan, to Duke University for Track.

Jumping to the next level of collegiate sports definitely will produce obstacles and challenges, but each of these athletes is committed to taking the step.

“It definitely feels like a dream come true.” Barkley Briggs said. “Playing football in college is something I’ve wanted to do since I was a little kid, and I’m incredibly grateful to have an opportunity to make that dream a reality.”

Not only does playing college sports help our athletes to compete at a higher level, but it also boosts the reputation of the Strake Jesuit athletic program, attracting quality young athletes to apply for admission to our school, which provides an elite 6A sports stage to perform on, alongside superior opportunities for academic and spiritual growth.