Eight student-athletes. Five sports. One accomplished goal. On Feb. 3, these students gathered in the library after school with their families, coaches, teachers and peers to officially sign to play a collegiate sport.

Seniors Kristen Peterson, Gabby Viera, Grant Bruggenjohan, Matt Blake, Brian Loomis,Evan Shukers, Colin Basler and Lindsay Anstine each signed with the college they will be attending.

“It’s so exciting thinking about being in a new place and getting to compete at a collegiate level,” Kristen Peterson said.

Peterson signed to swim with Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD.

“Johns Hopkins has superior academics and a really good swim team,” Peterson said. “I think it will be a good fit for me and I’m glad I made the decision to sign with them. It’s going to be  great experience to compete at this level of swimming and make new friends on the team.”

Peterson’s teammate, Gabby Vieira, also signed to swim in college for Tulane University in New Orleans, LA.

“Part of the reason I chose Tulane was because of the location. It’s really different and cultural,” Viera said. “I’m a little nervous, though. A lot of the girls I will be competing against could be in the Olympics. But I’m excited for the challenge.”

Grant Brueggenjohann signed to play baseball at Rend Lake College in Ina, IL.

“I decided on Rend Lake so I can build up my work ethic and hopefully transfer to a Division 1 school. I’m pretty excited to meet new people in new surroundings,” Brueggenjohann said.

Matt Blake is continuing his baseball career at Maryville University.

“I’m a little nervous, but I think once I’ve met all the guys and have started practicing with the team I’ll adjust quickly,” Blake said.

Brian Loomis signed to play football with Missouri State University. He chose Missouri State over offers from Southwest Minnesota State, Truman State University and Illinois College.

“I’m just excited to get down there. I feel like it’s going to be a great time and experience,” Loomis said.

As well as Loomis, Evan Shukers also signed to play football in college. Shukers signed with Truman State University.

“I loved the coaching staff and the atmosphere, especially on game day. It’s also a great school,” Shukers said.

Colin Basler accomplished his goal of playing soccer at a collegiate level. He has signed with Illinois College.

“Playing at Illinois College is a really good opportunity for me. I get to play for a good coach and go to a school with good academics. It feels great to know that all the hard work I have put in over the years has paid off,” Basler said.

Lindsay Anstine will attend Indiana State University to play soccer and major in business.

“I have always known I didn’t want to go to a big school, and Indiana State’s size is perfect for me. It’s only three and a half hours away from St. Louis, so my family will be able to come to games,” Anstine said. “I’m nervous about college itself, but playing soccer is making me feel more comfortable.”