Otero Lecture Hall buzzed with excitement on Nov. 13, 2024, as the community gathered to celebrate the first Signing Day of the 2024-25 academic year. This special event recognized the dedication and achievements of eight senior student-athletes who have committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Parents, students, coaches, and faculty members filled the room to support the young athletes. For many, it was a moment of pride and inspiration, culminating years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination.
The athletes honored at the event represented the lacrosse, baseball, and golf programs; their achievements are a testament to the strength of our athletic program and the commitment of its players. Seniors Henry Casani (University of North Carolina), Enzo Choi (Emerson College), Alex Michels (Swarthmore College), and Gus Singh (Amherst College) all signed to continue their lacrosse careers at the collegiate level. On the diamond, James Cunningham (Santa Clara University), Matt Limongelli (Trinity College), and Walter Urbon (University of Southern California) have committed to play for their respective universities. Tucker Sweeney (Santa Clara University) will also be competing at the collegiate level in golf. For these seniors, the path to Commitment Day has been anything but easy; it’s been a four-year gauntlet of trial and tribulation.
“I remember waking up at 5 a.m. for practice, balancing schoolwork, and pushing myself to improve every single day,” shared Michels, a stud senior midfielder. The event also allowed family and friends of the committed athletes to reflect on the journey of their student-athletes.
“It’s incredible to see how far they’ve come,” voiced Sweeney’s dad, Stender. “This Signing Day isn’t just about where they’re going next; it’s about honoring the countless hours they’ve spent getting here.”
While the day celebrated past achievements, it also marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. As these athletes prepare to take their talents to the collegiate level, they carry with them the lessons they have learned at Loyola—lessons of teamwork and striving for excellence in all aspects of life.
Urbon summed up the sentiments of the day when he said, “This is just the start. Loyola has prepared us to face any challenge, and I’m excited to see what’s next.”
