The latest round of Union Pines High School athletic commitments highlights a major achievement for student-athletes in Moore County. Eighteen seniors at Union Pines High School officially signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level during the school’s final signing day of the year.
The event, held on April 16, celebrated athletes across nine different sports, showcasing the depth of talent coming out of the Cameron-area school and the broader Sandhills region.
Union Pines College Athletic Commitments Span Multiple Sports
This year’s Union Pines High School athletic commitments include representation from men’s and women’s soccer, basketball, softball, lacrosse, baseball, volleyball, cross country/track, and football. Thirteen athletes signed during a morning ceremony, while five football players completed their commitments later in the day.
Here’s a breakdown of where these student-athletes are headed:
- Men’s Soccer: Cole Harkins – Lees-McRae College
- Women’s Soccer: Jaleesa Eichel – Virginia Military Institute
- Men’s Basketball: Kingsley Donaldson – Wake Tech CC; Joe Fuerch – Fayetteville Tech CC
- Softball: Kileigh Cameron – Carson-Newman University
- Women’s Lacrosse: Alison Cook – Methodist University
- Baseball: Carter Andreano – William Peace University; Willy Rivera – Lenoir CC; Joey Ring – Robeson CC
- Volleyball: Reese Lawrence – Concord University; Janelle Manzo – Central Carolina CC
- XC/Track: Corbin Weeks – East Carolina University
- Men’s Lacrosse: Rhys Blevins – Randolph-Macon College
- Football: Talik Graham – Allen University; Elijah Clayton – NC A&T; Tyler Thomas – Brevard College; Jeff Leone – St. Francis; Jonah Thienel – Randolph-Macon College
More Than Just Athletics
School officials say these Union Pines High School athletic commitments represent more than just success on the field. Each student-athlete has demonstrated dedication in the classroom, balancing academics with the demands of competitive sports.
The signing day ceremony also recognized the role of coaches, teammates, and families who supported these athletes throughout their high school careers.
In communities like Southern Pines, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst, moments like these highlight the strong connection between local schools and the broader community.
A Proud Moment for Moore County
The Union Pines High School athletic commitments serve as a point of pride for Moore County and the Sandhills. With athletes heading to colleges across North Carolina and beyond, the event reflects both individual achievement and the strength of local athletic programs.
As these seniors prepare for the next chapter, they carry with them the support of their school and community.
For more local stories celebrating student success across the Sandhills, stay connected with Star 102.5 and Sandhills News.
