On Wednesday, March 12, Bellefonte Area High School held their annual College Commitment Day. Ten class of 2025 student-athletes signed to play a sport in college in their post-high school careers.
Andy Gerasenko signed to play Division I Football for Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania. Andy has been playing Football for one year while also being involved with Soccer and Track & Field. Andy really enjoyed the adrenaline he felt during the games, and grew a genuine passion for Football. During his time at Saint Francis University, Andy plans to major in Accounting.
“Playing sports in college has always been a dream of mine. This opportunity to further my education and athletics because of just kicking a ball in high school is forever a blessing for me,” Andy said.
Peyton Vancas signed to play Division I Baseball for Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. Peyton has been playing baseball for 14 years and has grown a strong love for the sport. Winning the 4A State Championship his sophomore year is one of Peyton’s favorite memories while playing baseball for BAHS. Peyton is also involved in National Honors Society (NHS) and plans to major in Business.
“My commitment to Quinnipiac University means everything. It really showcases my hard work that has really paid off. I have always dreamt of playing Division I baseball, so this is a dream come true,” Peyton said.
Austin Irvin signed to play Division II Football and Track & Field for Mansfield University in Mansfield, Pennsylvania. Austin has been playing Football for ten years and Track & Field for four years. Austin’s favorite memory was beating Bellefonte’s rival Bald Eagle while getting to celebrate with his team. While Austin is the current Website Manager for the Red and White Newspaper, he continues to follow the direction of Journalism by majoring in Sports Communications.
“Playing Football and Track & Field in college means a lot to me since I get to continue both my academic and athletic careers at Mansfield University,” Austin said.
Alannah McNichol signed to play Division III Lacrosse for Mount Aloysius College in Cresson, Pennsylvania. Alannah has been playing Lacrosse for five years and grew fond of the environment and the speed of the game. Outside of Lacrosse, Alannah is immersed in various clubs and sports such as Cheerleading, FFA, NHS, SHH, Student Council, and Class Cabinet. Alannah plans to continue her education and major in Ultrasonography.
“Committing to College means pushing myself towards growth, both academically and personally. It is to help push myself to embrace challenges, go after opportunities, and work on becoming the best version of myself,” Alannah said.
Six other senior student-athletes signed during the College Commitment Day. Ryder Hamilton signed to play Division II Lacrosse for North Greenville University in Tigerville, South Carolina. Jaylee Lose signed to play Division II Softball for Millersville University in Millersville, Pennsylvania. Austin Smith signed to play Division II Lacrosse for Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Colby Besch signed to play Division III Lacrosse for Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. Alaina Smith signed to play Division III Softball for Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Finally, Kaiden Williams signed to play Division III Cross Country and Track for Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania.
Bellefonte High is collectively proud of these ten student-athletes for not only planning to grow their athletic career, but also their academic goals.
