It’s official. Six seniors signed letters of intent to play at the college level in the gym, Wednesday morning.

“The hard work these men and ladies put in it does pay off,” defense coordinator Wayne Poehls said. “And we’re very happy for you to watch them sign today.”

Five of the athletes signed to play football. Quarterback Billy Ray McCrary is traveling the farthest, heading to the West Coast to play for the University of California. His family was there to witness the signing and support the new college athlete.

“I have mixed emotions, it’s exciting but hard, it’ll be a great opportunity,” Carol McCrary said. “We are so thankful for everyone who has helped him.”

Offensive lineman Will Noble is now a Cougar and will play for The University of Houston.

“It feels like family down there,” Noble said. “The new coaches came in, they made me feel wanted, just like at home.”

Offensive linemen Austin Gehre signed with private school Wayland Baptist University in Plainsview.

“I feel good,” Gehre said. “I’ve been wanting to play at the next level, I’m thankful and hope for many opportunities to come.”

Two Raiders are joining Texas Lutheran’s team with running back AJ Badour and center Dalton Abendroth signing with the Bulldogs.

“I visited a few colleges,” Badour said. “And this is the one that stood out. I’m a little nervous about transitioning, but I’m excited.”

Badour is also excited to continue playing alongside Abendroth.

“I feel very speechless,” Abendroth said. “I didn’t think this would happen, the campus was small but spacious, it was a perfect fit for me.”

In addition to the football signings, Katie Glenn signed with The University of Texas to play soccer. The university has been interested in Glenn since her sophomore year, and now she’s finally going to play for the Longhorns.

“I’ve been waiting for two years to go there and now it’s official,” Glenn said. “It’ll definitely be a bigger atmosphere, and it won’t be like high school or club soccer, but UT has some of the best fields around.”