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HISD’s top student-athletes gathered at Delmar Fieldhouse on Wednesday, Feb. 7, to participate in the District's annual National Signing Day ceremony. The event was a celebration of the athletes' commitment to compete at the collegiate level and continue their education.
The ceremony was attended by friends, families, educators, and coaches who came out in full support of the student-athletes. HISD Athletics Director Andre' Walker expressed his pride in the athletes and acknowledged the hard work put in by the athletes, their coaches, parents, and the Athletics Department to help them reach this milestone. Walker also emphasized the importance of the athletes coming back to support the next generation of HISD athletes.
"I’m super proud of the athletes. They’ve put a lot of work in, and their coaches, their parents, the Athletics Department have all worked hard to help them get here," said Walker. "I look forward to them coming back and pouring back into the next generation of HISD athletes. That’s how we grow."
National Signing Day, traditionally reserved for football athletes, was expanded by HISD to include female and male athletes from all sports. This year, the event coincided with National Girls and Women in Sports Day, adding to the day's festivities.
The ceremony's student speaker was Carde Moore from North Forest High School. Moore, a dual-sport athlete excelling in volleyball, has committed to competing in Track and Field at Texas Southern University. Moore, also a member of the National Honors Society and a two-time state qualifier in Track and Field, shared his excitement and gratitude for the opportunities ahead.
"I’m super excited to continue my athletic career at Texas Southern University," said Moore. "I want to thank my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me along the way."
Zerick Rollins, a Texas A&M Player Developer and Former NFL Coach, was the guest speaker at the ceremony. As an alumnus of Kashmere High School, Rollins reflected on his own experience as an HISD student-athlete who earned a football scholarship to Texas A&M. He offered valuable advice to the young athletes.
"Understand that it’s your obligation to take full advantage of this golden opportunity," said Rollins. "Having the right perspective, being connected to the right people, and making the most of your opportunities will pave the way for success in sports and in life."
During the ceremony, several HISD student-athletes announced their college commitments. These athletes have shown exceptional talent and dedication in their respective sports and are ready to take the next step in their athletic careers:
- Khouri White from Lamar High School, committed to Louisburg College for Basketball (Women).
- Linh Le from Westbury High School, committed to the University of St. Thomas for Volleyball (Women).
- Tristen Brown from Lamar High School, committed to Vanderbilt University for Football (Men).
- Jayden Gambrell from Madison High School, committed to Lamar University for Basketball (Men).
- Christopher Jones from Westbury High School, committed to Texas State University for Football (Men).
- Jadon Garza-Pender from Lamar High School, committed to Brown University for Football (Men).
The National Signing Day ceremony concluded with a special thank you to the Heights High School Jazz Band and JROTC for their performances of the National Anthem and Presentation of Colors.
HISD continues to support and celebrate the achievements of its student-athletes, providing them with opportunities to excel both in sports and academics. For more information on HISD Athletics, visit their website and follow them on social media.