This morning, May 2, 2019, seven MC seniors had a pivotal moment in their athletic and academic careers. These student-athletes are now committed to their colleges; signing in ink, putting on their hats, and officially commencing the next step of their journey.

Basketball players Josh Redic (Roosevelt), Dan Oaks (Central College), and Will Mendez (Prairie State)  all signed and gladly donned their hats. Redic recalled winning the Regional Championship this spring as his favorite high school moment. “We had not won in three years,” he recalled, glowing with nostalgia.

Sergio Mendieta (Governor’s State)  and Axel Gongora (St. Xavier) signed letters of intent to play soccer, crediting Mount Carmel for teaching them about leadership and facing struggles with character.  Both athletes attributed much of their success to the excellent coaching by Mr. Antonio Godinez.

Mount Carmel Lacrosse Coach Matt McGuire was proud of one of his players, Ryan Foley, who commited to Carthage College for lacrosse. Foley, who transferred into MC after freshman year, credits dedication to his sport and academics as leading to his collegiate opportunity.

Wrestling is a staple at MC, creating athletes with physical and mental strength. Being able to push themselves on the mat teaches wrestlers like Miles Hoey and Dan Benoit (The Citadel) how to pursue academics as an equally important focus in college. Hoey committed to Michigan State University, not only become a better wrestler but to pursue a degree in nursing, and seems ready for his next step.

“I am excited to start learning.”

MC cultivates numerous skill and talents. Although not every student can continue his athletic career in college, there are many ways MC graduates are successful in college and life.

President Ned Hughes strongly believes in every student, and seeing these top student-athletes formalize their college plans put a proud smile on his face.

“MC students are the best.”

The long four years for these student athletes will soon come to an end, but their dedication and hard work is paying to off. Academics and athletics should work in balance, forming a student with the ambition to pursue any dream. The

These seven young men signed, put on their hats, and are ready to start their new journey.