7 CDS Students Celebrate Athletic Collegiate Commitments

On Tuesday, April 21, seven CDS athletes committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. 

From left: Kaitlyn Allen, Jane Neil, Jalen Boyd, Ethan Welsh, Douglas Smith, Matthew Dorsey, Luke Thompson

Kaitlyn Allen signed to play softball at Tusculum University, a Division II program.

“To know you is to love you. Your athleticism, passion for the game, and leadership on the field are a driving force and do not go unnoticed. You are one of the hardest-working players I have coached. Not only at practices and games, but also behind the scenes. You’re always working on your craft," said Head Coach Ashley Houseton. "It’s been an absolute honor and a privilege to coach you throughout middle and high school here at Covenant Day. I can’t wait to see what you do at the next level. Tusculum is getting a stud softball player, but more importantly, an absolutely wonderful human being."

Kaitlyn has been a member of the CDS Softball program since middle school. She has earned All-Conference First Team honors and All-State honors in her sophomore and junior seasons.

Jalen Boyd signed to play baseball at Paul D. Camp Community College, a Division III NJCAA college.

Coach David Houseton had this to say about Jalen Boyd - “You are one of a kind. God’s unique creation. I have seen you be funny, serious, caring, pay attention to details, and lead our team in prayer countless times during the season. You are a relentless worker and refuse to take no for an answer. You have demonstrated devotion to your craft. I look forward to watching your growth on and off the field, and I know you will achieve what you want to achieve in life and in baseball." 

Jalen has been a member of the CDS baseball program since middle school and has been on the varsity team for 3 years.

Matthew Dorsey signed to play baseball at Wake Tech Community College, a Division II NJCAA college.

Coach Houseton said, “I have witnessed Matthew embrace the role of leader this year on our baseball team. When times get rough, you can find Matthew supporting his teammates, encouraging others, and helping coach younger players during games and practices. He does this while catching every game this season and playing through injury and soreness.”

This is Matthew’s first year at Covenant Day. He is a team captain and the starting catcher. 

Jane Neil signed to play soccer at Louisiana Tech, a Division I program.  

“What I have grown to love about Jane is that she is a player I can put anywhere on the field. Since she came to us as a freshman, she has been a starter for us and has played every position on the field,” Said Head Coach Katie Johnson. “Jane works hard, she has a competitive spirit, but she is also willing to do whatever the team needs her to do. She is driven, passionate, hard-working, and committed.” 

Jane has been a part of the CDS soccer program since middle school. She earned Second Team All-Conference honors during her junior season.

Douglas Smith signed to play basketball at Grove City College, a Division III program.

Coach Micahel Laney said, “One of the things about Doug, he committed to the work - he is a gym rat, he loves the game. Even after the conclusion of our season, if I see anyone, it’s going to be Douglas Smith on the gun, shooting, putting in work, working out with one of his coaches. And the testimony of this opportunity that he gets to celebrate with his family is the testimony of all the work that he did. ...One thing that Douglas has done since day one - added value. He made it a daily routine to give you everything he had. I know he will add value to Grove City. You’re not going to find a guy who will work harder than Doug.” 

Douglas has been a member of the CDS basketball program since 7^th grade.

Luke Thompson signed to play basketball at Macalester College, a Division III program.

“Every single day in the weight room, every single day at practice, every single game he played, his presence made a difference. I know when he goes to Macalester, his presence will make a difference,” said Head Coach Micahel Laney. “If I could coach 12 young men like Luke Thompson, it may not be the loudest team, but it would be a group of young men who would [compete their hardest] for me.”

Luke has been a member of the basketball team during his junior and senior seasons. 

Ethan Welsh signed to run cross country and track & field at East Carolina University, a Division I college.

Speaking directly to Ethan, Coach Parrish said, “Ethan, you have allowed me to talk to you as a human being and relate to you so that you can achieve success. East Carolina is getting a tough-minded and thinking runner. You are going to be a blessing to that department."

Ethan has been a member of the cross country and track & field programs since middle school. He earned first-team all-conference after his junior and senior seasons. 

Congratulations to these seven athletes as they continue their future athletic endeavors. We can’t wait to cheer you on at the next level, but remember, you will always be a Lion!

 

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