Five of the top bulldogs from Tioga ISD’s Athletic Program signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers on the next level Feb 4.
Madison McDonald, Addyson Lange, Caden Downing, Cameron Askew and Hayden Roberts were recognized in front of their family, friends and peers in the Tioga High School gymnasium as they made their commitment to their respective colleges and universities.
“Signing Day in Tioga has turned into a special for our seniors, our program, our school and our community,” said Zach Birdwell, Tioga athletic director and head football coach. “It has become a day where a lifetime’s worth of work really pays off and where a lifelong dream comes true for these kids, so it’s an awesome experience all the way around, getting to watch those seniors enjoy it.”
All-district volleyball player McDonald signed her letter of intent to attend Seminole State College in Seminole, Oklahoma, where she will join the Lady Trojans Volleyball Program.
“I’m really looking forward to the experience of going to college,” she said. “I’m excited to live on campus and be on my own.”
She plans to major in business, with the goal of one day becoming an event coordinator.
“I want to thank my parents and coaches for helping me get to where I am today and for their constant support,” McDonald said.
Lange, a four-year member of the Tioga cheer program, signed her letter of intent to attend Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, where she will join the Mustangs cheer program.
“I’m looking forward to being a part of the team and making new friends,” she said.
Lange plans to study kinesiology, with the goal of one day becoming a chiropractic radiologist.
She thanked her coaches and her family for their love and support.
All-district defensive back Caden signed his letter of intent to attend Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, where he will receive an academic scholarship and join the Warriors football program.
“I’m looking forward to being away from home for a little bit and having the experience of living on my own,” he said.
Caden plans to earn a business degree and one day become a firefighter.
“I want to thank my parents, [Mark and Amanda Downing], and my coaches for helping me along the way,” he said.
Baseball player Cameron signed his letter of intent to attend Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas, where he will receive an athletic scholarship as one of the newest members of the Braves baseball program.
“I’m most excited about being able to be roommates and play on the same team with my childhood best friend, [Zechriah Groves],” he said.
Cameron said he plans to study sport leadership, with the goal of one day becoming a baseball coach.
Cameron thanked his parents, Trey and Shanna Askew, and Tioga head athletic trainer Ryann Fox for their support.
Multisport athlete Roberts signed his letter of intent to attend Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, where he will receive a full athletic scholarship as one of the newest additions to the Falcons football program.
“I’m really excited about having the opportunity to continue playing football and possibly win a national championship with some guys I know from around the area,” he said.
Roberts said he plans to major in sports management with the goal of one day becoming a coach after he finishes his on-field career.
He thanked his parents, coaches and teammates for their love and support.
