Spirits were high as Jennifer Chang, Claire Campbell and Zach Brown signed letters of intent the afternoon of Nov 8. The students were offered scholarships by three different colleges across the United States.
Jennifer Chang, four time state champion in women’s golf, accepted a scholarship from the University of Southern California. Chang tied for first in the North and South Women’s Amateur golf tournament which draws competitors from all over the United States. She is in second place for the North Carolina girls golf rankings and won the 4A girls East regional competition.
“High school golf has been an amazing journey and to be able to set records and to leave my name truly means a lot,” said Chang.
Zach Brown accepted a scholarship for swimming from North Carolina State University.
“I’m looking forward to racing people that are better/faster than I am,” Brown said. “Just keep trying and be dedicated to your sport,” He said about what advice he would give other athletes.
Brown has been on the Athens swim team each year of high school. He also does swim outside of school at the Marlins of Raleigh and has been there for nine years.
Claire Campbell signed to play volleyball at the College of Charleston.
“I’m really excited about the bonds that will be made with my teammates and coaches and being able to experience college as a division 1 athlete,” said Campbell.
She has been on the Varsity volleyball team since her freshman year and team captain her senior year and won Tri-6 player of the year.
“There were definitely days that coming to practice and giving 100% was a challenge, but I had to keep the end goal in mind and realize that the work I put in now is what will help me be the best I can be in the future,” said Campbell.
Many student athletes look up to these seniors and want to get where they are now. Here is some advice from the three:
“The hard times is when the growth happens. When you are faced with an injury or a hardship, it can be really tough mentally but remember why you play.. remember the love you have for your sport, teammates, and coaches and work a little harder for all of those things,” said Campbell.
“If you want to pursue sports at the collegiate level you always have to work hard and give it 100%,” said Chang.
“For people trying to get where I am you have to be dedicated and commit a lot of time to your sport. I didn’t get good overnight, it takes time,” said Brown.
