DeSoto High School’s Unforgettable National Signing Day

By Anthony Council
Correspondent
Texas Metro News

It was a monumental day that marked a significant milestone for countless students and their families as DeSoto High School proudly celebrated its annual National Signing Day for student-athletes committing to college programs. 

Many students, parents, grandparents, and friends showed up at the DeSoto High School gymnasium to celebrate the grand occasion. 

The atmosphere was electric, with a packed arena of supporters and fellow coaches speaking highly of different athletes who are poised to take the next step in their academic and athletic careers.

One key athlete was Kaleb Thompkins, who will be attending Prairie View A&M University to play baseball. “It feels like an honor because I love playing baseball and I get to go to an HBCU, one of the top HBCUs, and go play baseball and be great there,” he said, adding that even when he was younger, his journey has been fueled by determination. 

“It’s all about consistency. If it weren’t for my parents taking me to practice everyday, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

When asked about his excitement for Prairie View, he noted, “I do not know yet. My uncle went to PV, my aunt went to PV, so I’m like an alumni.”

His mother beamed with pride as she reflected on his accomplishments:

“Very ecstatic! This is truly a blessing,” she said. “This is something he’s always wanted to do. He’s been playing baseball since he was four years old, and we’re just so grateful that his hard work and dedication, along with those who poured into him, have paid off.”

Kaleb Thompkins joins a talented team at Prairie View A&M University, as the team finished with an 18-9 record last year and is looking to make a strong stand in future years. Last year, as a starting pitcher, Thompkins delivered a scoreless complete game, striking out three batters and allowing only two hits. Additionally, the Texas Rangers Youth Academy was crowned the champions of the All-Star Commissioner’s Cup.

Another exceptional athlete, Whitney Robinson, will compete in track and field at the University of Nebraska. Currently ranked number 3 nationally in the indoor long jump and holding her school’s record for jumps, Robinson exudes unwavering confidence and excitement for her future. She shares, “I feel incredibly blessed and happy.” 

Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized the importance of her support system, stating, “My coaches and my teammates have helped me throughout the years, and now we’re here,” she said, acknowledging that she secured a full scholarship. 

Filled with gratitude, she recognizes the profound impact her parents have had on her life, understanding the sacrifices they’ve made and the love they’ve continuously shown her: 

“They took me everywhere I needed to go and got me everything I needed. I wouldn’t be here without them.” 

When Whitney steps onto campus, she is fully committed to doing one thing, she says, “Handle my business.”

At the University of Nebraska, under the leadership of head coach Justin St. Clair, she is ready to contribute to a team that proudly ranked in the top 25 last year.

At the end of the signing period, several talented athletes have successfully secured their spots at various colleges. Taryn Bailey will compete in track at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), while Skyla Jones will join Coffeyville Community College in Kansas for softball. 

In football, Marshall Kirven is headed to Northeastern State University in Oklahoma, and Canden Mathis has signed with the University of Texas at Permian Basin. 

Additionally, Cameren Paul is set to showcase his basketball skills at Mississippi State University, and Andre Pentecost Jr. will represent Wichita State University in track. These signings mark a significant milestone in the athletic journeys of these promising individuals.

This day was more than a celebration; it represented the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and unwavering support. As these outstanding athletes prepare to pursue their dreams, they carry with them the hopes of their families, the pride of their school, and the belief that their best days are yet to come.

 With bright futures ahead, the journey of each student-athlete reminds us of the power of dedication and community spirit. Their stories are just beginning, and the world is eager to see what they will achieve next.