Kirkwood High School Celebrates 21 Seniors Signing Athletic National Letters of Intent

On Thursday, February 5, Kirkwood High School (KHS) honored 21 student-athletes who have committed to continuing their academic and athletic careers at colleges and universities across the country. During the ceremony, Principal Dr. Seth Harrell, Senior Class Principal Dr. Courtney J. Ford, and Athletic Director Corey Nesslage delivered remarks. Each student-athlete was individually recognized before taking part in a ceremonial signing of their National Letters of Intent.

Dr. Seth Harrell welcomed attendees and acknowledged the families and friends who supported the athletes throughout their journeys: “Students, your families and friends have made an incredible commitment alongside you. There have been years of time, financial investment, and sacrifices to help you reach this level. The discipline you’ve developed through athletics will serve you well as you move forward. It takes a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication to compete at this level, and this is a truly unique opportunity. Stay focused, keep grinding, and continue doing what needs to be done. The same characteristics that brought you here are the same traits you’ll need to succeed in college and earn your degree.”

Dr. Courtney J. Ford, senior class principal, thanked the coaches and educators who supported the students along the way: “Thank you to our coaches, teachers, and staff who have mentored and supported these students. Today represents a goal realized. It reflects early-morning workouts, late-night study sessions, and a commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom. You embody what it means to be a student-athlete. Being part of a team teaches lessons no textbook ever could. Through hard work, you’ve shown that great things are possible. You represent Kirkwood with integrity, and the colleges you’re heading to are gaining outstanding individuals. To the families, today is your day, too. Your investment and support helped make this moment possible. This is a launching point as you join a new community, and we will continue to support you every step of the way. We are incredibly proud of you.”

Athletic Director Corey Nesslage highlighted the significance of competing at the collegiate level: “Only seven percent of high school athletes go on to compete at the collegiate level, which places you in an elite group. You’ve demonstrated excellence both academically and athletically, and it’s that combination that has created this opportunity. Thank you for your commitment and effort on and off the field. You’ve accomplished some truly remarkable things here at Kirkwood.”

Each student-athlete was individually recognized with the Kirkwood “clap,” along with the sport they will play and the college or university they will attend. The ceremony concluded with a group signing of National Letters of Intent, followed by photos and a cake reception with family and friends.

(Photo credit: Kate Jensen, KHS Senior)

Front row (left to right):

Back row (left to right):

KHS students not in attendance: Three Seniors graduated in December 2025 and have already enrolled and are currently students this semester at the following universities. Pictured left to right: 

Jamiir Sloan-University of Northern Iowa-Football

Cooper Owens-Southwest Baptist University-Football

Jacob Eberhart-University of Illinois-Football