On Tuesday, November 21, NDCL Athletics hosted a National Signing Day to honor four athletes committing to play their sport at the collegiate level.
CHARLIE JOHNSON
Sport: Lacrosse
School: University of Indianapolis (Division II, GLVC)
Academic Plan: Mechanical Engineering
Parents: Kelly and Andrew Johnson
Accomplishments:
2023 D2 Showcase FO All-Star
2023 Ohio-Showcase All-Star
2023 First Team All-Conference
2023 Team Offensive MVP
2023 News-Herald Second Team All-Star
2022 Project Midwest All-Star
2022 Second Team All-Conference
Advice for current and future Lions:
"Always push yourself to be better and always believe in the path that God has set for you. If you trust in Him, He will put you in the situations you need to be in, in order to succeed."
REILLY PARENT
Sport: Volleyball
School: Edinboro University (Division II, PSAC)
Academic Plan: Undecided
Parents: Greg and Julie Parent
Accomplishments:
4-year Varsity Letter
2022 OHSAA State Champion
2023 Varsity Team Captain (co-captain)
2023 All-District - First Team
2023 First-team Crown All-Conference
2023 Massillon-Jackson Tournament MVP
2023 News-Herald All-Stars - Second-team
Advice for current and future Lions:
"Get out of your comfort zone! It's important to challenge yourself in anything that you do. It could be meeting new people, taking a harder class, joining a club, or trying out for the team. New experiences can help you become better at dealing with the unfamiliar. This will help you stay composed and focused when a new challenge presents itself and improve your decision-making abilities in these situations. Regardless of the outcome, you gain experience, knowledge, and skills when you leave your comfort zone."
EMMA BLANKENSHIP
Sport: Volleyball
School: American University (Division I, Patriot League)
Academic Plan: Biology
Parents: Jodi and Alan Blankenship
Accomplishments:
4-year Varsity Letter
2022 OHSAA State Champion
2022 First-team Crown All-Conference
2023 First-team Crown All-Conference
2022 All-Star District third-team
2023 All District second-team
2022 Most Improved Award
2023 Massillon Jackson All-Tournament Team
Advice for current and future Lions:
"Work hard and use adversity to drive you. Everyone experiences bumps in the road. There are highs and lows in life but keep pushing through. Focus on what you can control and believe in yourself. By doing so you can accomplish anything you set your mind to."
SYDNEY ATKINSON
Sport: Lacrosse
School: Malone University (Division II, G-MAC)
Academic Plan: Exercise Science/Coaching
Parents: Phoebe and Tim Atkinson
Accomplishments:
4-year letter Girls Lacrosse - Goalie
4-year letter Swimming
4-year letter Colorguard
4-year letter Wrestling Mat-stat
2-year letter Student Trainer
Advice for current and future Lions:
"Keep working hard at your dreams and be the leader on and off the field or court. There are always going to be people to support you and your future ahead. Always believe in your abilities and you will go far and find the right school/coach and team for you."
