College Athletic Signing Day at SC

Congratulations are in order for Girls Basketball player Crystal W. '23, Baseball players Kehden H. '23 and Grant W. '23, and Girls Volleyball players Olivia B. '23, Jaida S. '23, and Ava H. '23.

Crystal W. has chosen Northwestern to continue her academic and athletic career. She has been a valuable part of the Trailblazers' success, helping the team to an Open Division State Championship in 2022. "I chose Northwestern because I want to be challenged athletically and academically," she said. "It is one of the top universities in the world and one of the top conferences, the Big Ten. Best of all, the coaching staff believes in my ability to contribute. I'm honored to attend starting next fall. Sierra Canyon Head Coach Alicia Komaki could not be more proud or happier. "Crystal has impressed me with her independence and ability to handle the rigor of Sierra Canyon elite academics and athletics commitment," Komaki said. "It is only fitting that she continues her career at one of the top universities in the country. I am so proud of her and am inspired by her resilience, overcoming challenges with English being her second language."

Kehden H. is headed to Oregon and is expected to compete for playing time as a catcher and third baseman.

"I told them I will play anywhere," he said. "Anything to get me on the field and help the team." Kehden H. has been a Ducks fan since he was a little boy. "I love the neon colors," he said. "I had a neon hoodie when I was little and fell in love with Oregon. It was like a dream come true when they came calling. I am just really thankful for this opportunity to play in college. I have wanted this for a long time." Kehden H.  is a top hitter and projects to reach his peak as he enters his 20s. He has a great approach at the plate and is a developing power hitter.

Grant W. is a centerfielder headed to Brown in the Ivy League. "This has been a lifelong dream to play at the collegiate level," he said. "Brown values academics and athletics. I wanted to get the best possible education while also playing baseball. I felt great on campus when I visited and developed a close relationship with the head coach."

Three volleyball players also signed Letters of Intent this week. Olivia B. is headed to Pittsburgh, Jaida S. to Cornell, and Ava H. to Clemson. Olivia B. is a powerful outside hitter that led the Trailblazers in kills this past season. Babcock also was instrumental in helping Sierra Canyon capture its first-ever Division 1 championship with a sweep against Mira Costa Saturday at Cerritos College. Jaida S. formed a 1-2 punch with Olivia B. sending home plenty of kills of her own from the left side. Ava H. was a force in the middle blocking balls back and scoring points with a quick right arm. "These three girls have worked extremely hard for the opportunity to play at the next level," Sierra Canyon Head Coach Stefanie Wigfall said. "It's exciting to see them move on. They all played such a big part in the team's success. I have no doubt they all will contribute positively next year. All three have leadership skills and work ethic that will translate to the next level."