Feature Photo By: Vanessa Guereca – Matthew Johnson (right) goes in for a layup while Joseph Hussey (left) prepares to strike the goal. These two senior athletes have recently signed with their colleges.
By; Tatyana Mitchell, Review Staff
With the senior class of 2017 inching closer to their high school graduation, more college acceptances for athletes have arrived.
Seniors Joseph Hussey and Matthew Johnson have officially signed with the colleges of their choice. Hussey has signed with Otero Junior College (OJC) in La Junta, Colorado and Johnson has signed with the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) in Greeley.
Hussey is on the varsity soccer team at Rangeview, and is planning on pursuing it at OJC. Johnson, who was on Rangeview’s varsity basketball team, is going to continue playing at UNC.
Hussey had made his final decision when he visited the campus and saw how their team played. He was later able to have a one on one with the coach. When the coach saw him play, he immediately asked Hussey to commit to OJC.
“My mom and dad [helped me get here] and coach Strouse, club coach Bryan, and my best friend Jalen,” said Hussey.
Hussey’s coaches think he will be a great addition to have on the OJC soccer team when in the process of transitioning.
“They’re obviously interested in his skills; he’s fast, brave, tenacious, and competitive,” stated coach Strouse, “I’m excited for him [because] it extends his soccer career and it’s something he’s planned for his entire life.”
Johnson’s decision for UNC is based on the fact that it’s Division I (NCAA), the highest level of intercollegiate athletics, and that it’s close to his parents. He also mentioned that he received an academic scholarship for the university.
“My parents [helped me get here] because they push me every day and my coaches and team,” explained Johnson. “They support me when I’m down.”
Coach Palmer sees Johnson’s passion and dedication for the game all the time.
“I think it’s a neat opportunity and is one he created by hard work in class and in the gym,” said Palmer.
Now that these two athletes have signed, they will have new homes to play for soon. Judging from the feedback of their coaches, both are sure to have a lot to bring to their colleges, on the court/field, and in their classes.
