February 5th was a day of big dreams. The college sports world watched as high school  athletes in Baton Rouge signed their National Letter of Intent (NLI) to take their talents to the next level.

NLI is a big deal it's like a formal agreement.  High school sports stars are getting ready to join college squads. Young athletes get the chance to show what they can do on a bigger stage.

Conditioning for competition is tough. Kicking a ball into a net, swinging a bat, or throwing a football is not easy. It's all about the passion and getting better every step of the way.

Taking a step forward into the college world. Sure it takes hard work and dedication.

U-High had seven students making their mark. Girls soccer is a strong point. Jayla Renter, a talented soccer player, headed to New Orleans for Xavier University. Caden Connor, a baseball star is going to Delgado Community College will have to work on his skills to play sail for Delgado in New Orleans.  Other players were up for the challenge.

Top athletes make bases. Emile Picarella, the gifted quarterback, is staying local and joining LSU's Tigers.  Emile will be working hard to stay on top of his game in football the path to success is hard but Emile is ready for it.

Other athletes are not left behind. Offensive linemen Jarvis Brookshire is ready for action barking the tail of Southern University and Preston Jones will be chewing through the grass to get to Nicholls.

Some teams are performing well in their districts and some teams are having trouble. Cayson Hill, an outstanding player, is going to play for Grambling State Tigers in north Louisiana. That is a big step for him. And small wide receiver, Zay Martin is headed to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where he'll have to bring his A-game.

Many people want to be connected to school athletics Ascension Catholic had three athletes signing their NLIs. The young athletes that are picked for the team are just outstanding like Sydney Vaillon and Aubrey Delatte. Sydnvy will play center field for Louisiana Christian and Aubrey will play catcher for Ni.

Steve Vaillions have always had a passion for sports. Aubrey will be bringing her passion to Nicholls Colonels. Meanwhile, Chad Elzy Jr. , a standout running back, is going to Kentucky State University to continue his football career.

The Louisiana sun will shine on the road to building a college career. The focus on the overall championship is the big challenge.

College Dreams Take Flight: Local Teens Secure Athletic Futures

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