De Soto High School has seen a successful season in a wide arrangement of sports, and with the end of the year coming soon, senior athletes are looking to continue their career on a college level.

April 30 marked the transition from high school sports to a college career when six athletes signed to colleges to continue their careers.

These athletes include Alex Schemmel for soccer at Kansas City Kansas Community College, Exavier Jackson for football at Concordia University, Kira Horn for cheerleading at Baker University, Mariah Grizzle for basketball at Ottawa University, Leo Oplotnik for football at Tabor College and Katy Williamson for cheerleading at Washburn University.

Grizzle is happy to get the opportunity to play at a higher level.

“It’s very exciting and also a little nerve racking because I am still recovering from an ACL injury, but I am ready to take basketball to the next level. By playing at the next level, it will make me more versatile on the floor, and hopefully I can gain back some endurance so I will be able to compete at the next level,” Grizzle said.

Girl’s basketball coach Ryan Robie is proud to have trained a successful student.

“At the end of the day, as a head coach it is our responsibility to do everything we can to support our athletes reach their dreams and goals,” Robie said. “Choosing a college that will meet her needs academically and is a good fit athletically is always a tough decision. Mariah has a close relationship with her family so staying close was a key factor in her decision.”

Oplotnik is thankful for the opportunity to play at a higher level.

“It is a great and humbling experience, specially going to a really good division team school. It’s also great academically. Being able to play at the college level will improve anyone’s skill. It’s just a whole other animal and I’m really excited for it,” Oplotnik said.