Seven seniors picked up their pens yesterday, opened their folders, and signed National Letters of Intent (NLI) to various colleges. Ben Richardson (Loyola University), Clayton Custer (Iowa State University), David Salach (Washburn University), Vince Fritz (Sacred Heart University) and Lauren Mertz (Kansas State University) all signed to play basketball. Grace Mize (William Jewell University) signed to play volleyball, and Jackson Fuller (Lindenwood University) signed to play baseball.

According to the NCAA, an NLI is a binding agreement between a student-athlete and an NLI member institution. By signing it, the student-athlete agrees to attend the institution full-time for one academic year. Also, the institution agrees to provide financial aid for one academic year.

Mertz, who received a  scholarship offer from KSU after her freshman year basketball season, said that she is extremely excited to begin the next chapter of her life at KSU.

“I have never looked forward to something more in my life,” Mertz said.

Mertz said she has her support system to thank for everything she has accomplished. After tearing both ACLs her sophomore and junior year, Mertz said she thanks her physical trainer for her success.

“I would not be here without my physical trainer after my knee injuries,” Mertz said. “He is the most amazing coach and teacher and I owe a lot of myself to him. My family has been the greatest thing that has ever happened to me.”

Steve Harms, assistant principal and Athletic Director, said that this year’s seniors were very diverse.

“We had quite a few different sports represented and we had lots of different colleges represented,” Harms said. “They’re all great kids, great representatives and role models for BVNW and we’re very proud of them.”