As the school year comes to an end, senior athletes are finalizing their plans in regards to their future such as: what college they want to attend, or going somewhere other than college or work.

“I knew I wanted to continue playing soccer in college since I was a little girl,” senior Peyton Duffing said. “My dream has always been to go Division I.”

Duffing will continue her athletic and academic career playing soccer at Western Michigan University, Division l, in Kalamazoo, Mich.

While some have had a set plan for their future for years, other athletes recently chose to continue their athletic careers.

“I had one of my favorite coaches come up to me and tell me that I should play in college,” senior Allen Palmero said. “I never thought about it until someone showed interest and told me how much potential I had.”

Palmero will continue his athletic and academic career playing football at Southwest Baptist University, Division ll, in Bolivar, Mo.

Many athletes will be continuing their high school career and have already committed to a college.

“I committed to Mizzou back in 2022,” junior Nolan Sissom said. “I had my mind set to going there ever since I started playing baseball and I was so determined to reach that goal.”

Sissom will continue his athletic and academic career playing baseball at the University of Missouri, Division l, in Columbia, Mo.

Only 6% of high school athletes are said to compete in college. Their love for the sport may start to decline as they get older and get interested in other activities, according to catchmarksports.com.

There are many different levels to play your sport in. In addition to a four-year college, two-year college is an option for athletes.

“I haven’t committed yet, but I have the option to go to a two-year college,” senior Makenna Jennings said. “I can do those two years, work on my skills and continue my career at a four-year D1 and maybe play overseas.”