December 4th proved to be a thrilling day for the Apex Cougars when it marked one of those very special days our talented Cougar student-athletes signed to attend a college. The main gym was packed with friends and family commemorating this special moment as pride and joy were in the air. Here at The Legacy, I had the privilege of interviewing 5 of those 10 athletes, taking a look into the paths that formed their journeys, successes of the present, and hope for the future.

First off is Adrian Gonzalez, who will be heading out to NC A&T to continue his baseball career. Adrian picked this college because they were genuinely interested in him during the recruitment process; he felt wanted and needed for their program. He started to play baseball in the second grade with the kids in his neighborhood and hopes to one day become a professional. Adrian credits his success to his parents, coaches, family, and teammates, expressing special gratitude to Coach Olive, Coach Holmes, and his little brother, Amaruy Gonzalez, a JV baseball player at Apex High.

Next is Justin Davis or JD, who will be taking the baseball road to Lynchburg. He couldn’t pass up the allure of Lynchburg, which had a nice campus, super nice guys on the coaching staff, and it just felt like home, he said. Pfeiffer University, Barton College, and Francis Marion were places that extended an offer to JD, but at Lynchburg, he found his home. Having played baseball for over ten years, since the age of four when his father signed him up for tee ball, JD chases his dreams with a down-to-earth feeling, saying that he takes things on a year-to-year basis, and that if he ever reaches the pros, he will be excited. He would wish to show profound gratitude to his parents for the sacrifice and support, and to all coaches and teammates who made the journey with him. Before he is gone he would wish to appreciate Coach Olive, Coach Verb, Coach Schaefer, Coach Holmes, and each one of his teammates.

Coleson Partel will attend William Peace University, where he has signed to continue his baseball career. Coleson picked up a really good vibe with the school’s program and he liked the location of it. He also received interests from Barton and Greensboro but found the best fit with William Peace. Coleson started his love for baseball when his grandfather brought him onto the field when he was little and he has been committed ever since. Although he hopes to someday go professional, he intends to focus on college for now. He would like to thank his family and friends for pushing him to be his best, and before he leaves Apex High, he’d like to thank his coaches and friends there for their support.

Over to lacrosse, Paige Derda will continue her athletic career at Mount Olive. Paige chose the college because she admired the coach and liked the friendliness of the atmosphere and the players that were there. She also likes that it is close to home. It was among other offers, but a fit that felt right over the others. She started playing lacrosse eight years ago when she wanted to switch from soccer, a decision which introduced her to her love of the game. Grateful for the support of family, friends, and her coaches, she thanks those around her who have helped her be the competitor she is today. Before closing this chapter at Apex High, Paige would like to thank Coach Rutledge, Coach Welch, and her teammates for the encouragement.

And last, but certainly not least, is Emily Degnan, who will take her soccer talents to UNCW (Wilmington). She chose UNCW because the campus life is great and the staff was nice and supportive. She received a chance to go to the USC Upstate but decided to go with UNCW. She has been playing soccer for 14 years, and always liked playing. If it is in the cards for her, it is a maybe for becoming professional. She considers herself very lucky to have received so much love and support from her parents and Coach Mac, who helped her on and off the field. This is an opportunity that she cannot let slip by without expressing her gratitude to Coach Mac and Coach Jordan for everything they have done to help her.

As we celebrate this amazing day for our Apex cougars athletes, let’s continue to cheer them on in hopes to one day see all of them in the professional leagues! Go Cougars!