Across the United States, star high school athletes woke up this morning in anticipation of a life changing signature. Today is the first National Signing Day of 2018 as nationwide, student athletes are signing a binding contract to further their athletic passion on the collegiate level.

Coppell High School honored these athletes through the National Letter of Intent signing this morning in the CHS Arena. A variety of sports were mentioned, with football and soccer being the most prominent.

Before each athlete was called up, his/her coach spoke about him/her for a few minutes, explaining his/her character and how he/she got to where they are today. Work ethic, consistency and passion were a few of the traits repeatedly brought up.

Senior Francisco Redondo has been training for soccer since he was a child, and the blood, sweat and tears he put into the sport payed off today, when he signed a contract to continue playing at Hardin-Simmons University.

“I’ve been playing soccer almost all my life, basically since when I was 5 years old,” Redondo said.

Once the celebration was over, many lingered in the arena, snapping photos with the athletes. Friends, family and administration are all bursting with pride.

Follow Pramika @pramika_kadari