As our senior athletes prepare to leave the Kenwood nest and learn to fly, we can only think of their unique and rather difficult transition from high school athletes to college athletes. High school athletes, often local stars with impressive honor, find themselves stepping into a much larger arena where the competition is fierce and the stakes are higher.
Austin Mbuyi will be attending Alvernia University, majoring in criminal justice. “Since I’m playing basketball I feel excited; it’s definitely going to be a new journey, but I am excited for the future and to see where this opportunity takes me,” says Austin. Initially, Austin did not plan on playing basketball in college, but he fell in love with the program. When his coach encouraged him to attend their camp, he did and seized the opportunity. Austin acknowledges this will be a new challenge, saying that in college, “it will be on me to get my work done on time and be independent with my life. I don’t know the team and I’m pretty much new, so it’s going to take some getting used to.” Despite the challenges, Austin is eager to face whatever comes his way.
Makenzie Kerner, also known as “Kenzie” or “#9,” will be attending Frostburg State University, majoring in sports exercise science and playing women’s lacrosse. Kenzie has played lacrosse since she was four years old, so it only makes sense for her to continue her passion in college. Kenzie is not worried about the transition from a high school athlete to a collegiate level. “I’m excited to play! I’ve already played at a competitive level, so I’m not worried about the transition.” Kenzie will be playing Division two and will play defense on the Bobcats field. She already knows most of the girls on the team, having built connections before she even puts her cleats on the field. Her sister Victoria (Tori) Kerner says, ”Although I’ll miss my personal Uber driver, I’ll miss her more on the field after playing beside her for so many years. I’m glad that I was able to watch her grow as a player and D2 athlete.” While her Kenwood team will miss their captain, who kickstarted the girls’ lacrosse team her freshman year, they are excited to see what the future holds for Kenzie.
“I’M SO HYPE!” says Khalime Truell, who will be attending Earlham College, majoring in education, and playing men’s lacrosse. Not worried about the transition, he says, “It’s definitely going to be a big transition, but I really think I can handle it. I’m beyond excited to play, and it’s going to be way more competitive, so I can hopefully make it to the PLL (Premier Lacrosse League).” While it will be challenging to become a freshman goalie, he is excited about the opportunity. Khalime knows some of the team and is eager to put on his helmet and defend Earlham’s goal. Our boys lacrosse team has a big position to fill as Khalime travels five hours away to further his lacrosse career.
Kam Kustis will be attending Frostburg State University, majoring in business. He will play Division two football, taking on the roles of H-back and Tight End, with hopes to play some defense as well. Kam is excited and says, “I’ve been preparing myself to play throughout the duration of high school, balancing education and football, so I feel the transition will be smooth.” He adds that his motivation comes from his “unconditional love and passion for the sport.” Kam’s presence will be missed on the team, but he is more than excited to play on the Bobcat field.
Gabe Priet will be attending the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, majoring in nursing while playing soccer. He will be a Division 1 right back or center midfielder. Gabe says, “I think the transition will be smooth. I’ve practiced with a college team, but I do understand that it is a big change. College is way more self-paced and leaves me with more time to finish work and be independent.” Having played soccer all his life, it only makes sense for him to continue into college. Gabe is a strong defensive player and truly shines on the defensive side. His team will miss his vital position as a starting player but are excited to watch him grow into a Division one athlete.
Mackenzie Green, “Kenzie,” will be attending Nesho College, majoring in sports science with plans to become an athletic trainer. She will be playing women’s basketball. Kenzie says, “It will be way different; coaches will be stricter, and I’m going to have to learn how to manage my time and balance school, practice, and games.” She has already built connections with team members and is excited to play Division two. Kenzie aims to go far in basketball, viewing college as the first step in advancing her career. Although Kenwood will miss having Kenzie on the court, her coaches and teammates are enthusiastic about witnessing her growth as a collegiate athlete.
Niyon McKenzie will be attending Mary Baldwin University to pursue basketball. Bre Vina’s future in soccer remains undecided, with Coach Tomasura possibly offering guidance. Similarly, Jahlyl Whitfield and Jayvon Fahie are still considering their paths in football, with Coach Swain available for advice.
