Photo by Jenny Walters Photography
West Chester, OH (April 14, 2021)
Lakota West Athletic Department hosted an athletic signing event on Wednesday afternoon in the Lakota West Main Gym on the first day of the NCAA Basketball Regular Signing Period. Five Senior Firebirds signed their commitment letters to continue their academic and athletic careers at their respective schools. Senior Football Players Jackson Kuwatch and Matthew Howard joined the ten other football seniors who have already signed earlier in the school year (Link to Story). The Firebirds now boast 177 football players in Lakota West history to make the college football commitment since the school opened in 1997. In addition to the two football players, Seniors Zach Plotkin (track), Morgan Allison (swimming) and Syd Hilderbran (volleyball) made their commitments official.
The Firebirds also saw 12 athletes sign in the fall signing ceremony in November bringing the total number of signed athletes to 27 for the Class of 2021 (Link to fall story).
Special thanks to Jenny Walters Photography for the photos of the event. Link to Photo Album here>>>jennywaltersphotography.smugmug.com
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Zach Plotkin-Track/Cross Country– Ohio State University
In only two years of running cross country, Zach Plotkin has made his mark in the Lakota West history books. He owns the 5th fastest 5k time in school history (15:50), has earned two first team All-GMC awards, was an individual state qualifier his senior season and a member of the 2020 OHSAA State Championship team. In his first attempt running on a track, Plotkin broke the 3200 meter school record (9:17.20). “In 30 Plus years of running and coaching, Zach is one of the most analytical runners I have ever worked with. He is always striving to find more ways to get better. He will be fun to watch the next 4 years,” said Lakota West Cross Country Coach Sean Hart.
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Syd Hilderbran-Volleyball-Thomas More University
The 6 foot tall middle hitter is a three-time All-GMC recipient and the 2020 GMC Player of the Year. Hilderbran was also named first team all-district. In her senior season, Syd led the GMC in kills (240), blocks (55) and was 2nd in pass points (847). “Thomas More is a great fit for Syd. They will be getting a great all-around player. She is a tremendous blocker and her quickness will serve her well in college. Her greatest attributes are her competitiveness and how she thrives under pressure,” said Lakota West Head Coach Tracey Kornau
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Morgan Allison-Swimming– Valparaiso University
Morgan Allison has been a 4 year varsity butterfly stroke and 200 IM specialist. She is also a 4-time OHSAA district qualifier. “Morgan has always been a team leader including her involvement in Lakota West SAAB, Morgan set goals and worked hard to achieve those goals each season, including achieving her goal of continuing her swimming in college,” said Lakota West Head Coach Dennis Beck.
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Jackson Kuwatch-Football– Ohio State University
The 6’4” 220lb linebacker served as a Captain for the Firebirds. He had 59 tackles, 3 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles during the 2020 season. He was selected 1st Team All-Conference, 1st Team All-Southwest Ohio, 1st Team All State, and the Southwest Ohio Defensive Player of the Year. “Jackson was a multi use player for the Firebirds. Starting at linebacker he could also quickly drop back into pass coverage, stuff the run, rush the quarterback, and became a running back in short yardage situations on offense. He will be a great addition to the Buckeyes,” said Lakota West Football Coach Tom Bolden.
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Matthew Howard-Football– Ohio Northern University
Matthew Howard was the placekicker for the 2020 Firebirds. He was a major defensive factor with his big booming kickoffs that led to touchbacks and our opponents having to start their drives at their own twenty yard line. A sure bet on extra points and field goals he kicked for a total of 50 points during the season. Matthew kicked a school record tying 51 yd FG to help seal a playoff win. He was selected 1st Team All-Conference, 1st Team All-SW Ohio and third team All-State.
