Morgan Allen chose a saddle over a softball Wednesday afternoon at Durango High School, as she was one of four student-athletes who signed National Letters of Intent to participate in collegiate athletics on National Signing Day.
Allen committed to South Dakota State University for the equestrian team, where she said she found a unique fit for both her major and her sport of choice.
“I’ve been riding since I was 7, and I’ve always really loved it,” Allen said. “To be able to keep doing what I love is amazing, and South Dakota State fit all of my needs. It’s got a great equestrian program. I plan on being a large animal (veterinarian), and they’ve got a great pre-vet program.”
Allen said that despite being a niche sport – there are only 19 Division I equestrian programs – her recruiting process was standard.
“It really was just like any Division I sport,” Allen said. “They do recruiting just like everyone else, and it was really cool just to be a part of it.”
The Jackrabbits are on the rise, as the program has made the national championships in back-to-back years.
Allen also thanked her trainers and parents, Amy and Rod Allen.
“There’s no way I would’ve made it here without them,” Allen said. “They are all over Colorado and they’ve been with me throughout this process. It really means a lot and I just wanted to thank them for everything they’ve done.”
Sierra Martin committed to Johnson & Wales University – Denver, a Division III program where she will play the middle blocker position as she did with DHS.
“I feel like it’s a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders,” Martin said. “I’ve been doing the recruiting process for two-plus years, so to finally make the decision that I’m really content with, and it’s the perfect all-around fit for me, it’s super relieving.”
Martin, daughter of Shelaine and Steve Martin, played 80 sets for the Demons this past season and had 120 kills and eight service aces to go with 50 total blocks.
DHS head coach Collen Vogt said Martin worked hard the past two seasons.
“I think when Sierra came to us as a junior, she really wanted to do whatever it took to get to the next level,” Vogt said. “She’s grown and matured a lot as a player and as a person. She’s definitely ready to compete at a high level. She’s got great timing, and I think she’ll really excel at the middle spot.”
Martin intends to major in business administration next fall.
“It was really cool to see all of the athletes that you go to school with every single day,” Martin said. “It’s unique to see everyone with their future ahead of us. We’re all athletes, and I can’t wait to see what we all do.”
Durango’s Sarah Vierling said it might take a bit of time to adjust to a Northeast winter but is looking forward to representing Amherst College in Massachusetts next fall.
“It’ll be some harsh winters, but thankfully I’ve got a good down coat,” Vierling said. “Regardless of the winter, it’s just really exciting. I’ve been working toward this for a while now, and it’s nice to finally reach my goal and get to play college soccer.
Vierling’s club, Rio Rapids 01 based in Albuquerque, had a host of commitments as there were 22 players on the roster who signed with NCAA schools. Despite getting exposure, Vierling’s route to Amherst still had some bumps along the way.
“The recruiting process was really complicated for me because I knew I wanted to play in college since middle school, and it’s been hard to get exposure living in a small town like Durango,” Vierling said. “I took the club route and have been playing with them for the past four years, just playing with that club, and in high school, plus (identification) camps, it’s been a lot.”
Vierling, daughter of Jeff and Jenny Vierling, said that the competitive program and her future teammates sold her on the school.
“Just going on my official visit and spending time with the girls and seeing how they play, it was really special,” Vierling said. “I just saw the girls on the field wearing Amherst jerseys and I just knew I wanted to be in that jersey playing for them.”
Amherst is a prestigious liberal arts college, but Vierling will take a different path and intends to major in physics and astronomy.
“I think it’s going to be perfect because I’ll get to be well-rounded,” Vierling said. “I’ll still be able to pursue soccer and what I’m interested in for my academics. I want to challenge myself athletically as well as academically. It’s going to be the beginning of a journey that will take me to life goals.
The final DHS athlete who was honored for National Signing Day was Madalen Meier, who committed to play for Fort Lewis College golf last month.
Meier, daughter of K’lyn and Ron, said she is looking forward to staying local and competing for the Skyhawks next fall.
“It’s been pretty surreal this past month, but it’s also pretty cool to know that I’m doing something that not a lot of people get to do,” Meier said. “Especially with going to Fort Lewis, which is our home college and having people know and follow Fort Lewis, as well as my golfing career, it’s awesome to be a part of something that’s so close to home.”
bploen@durangoherald.com
