HP Signees Specialize in Different Fields
Joining the soccer program at Texas Tech next season will make Savanna Jones feel like she’s among family and friends.
Her parents met while they were students there, so the Highland Park midfielder is already familiar with the Lubbock campus. And playing for the Red Raiders also will allow Jones to reunite with former Lady Scots standout Kate Summers, who is currently a Texas Tech freshman.
“We’re really good friends,” Jones said of Summers. “Her being there makes me feel much more comfortable.”
On Wednesday, she signed with the Red Raiders and was recognized during a ceremony that also honored three HPHS football signees and a pair of baseball standouts.
Jones reached the 50-goal plateau for the Lady Scots earlier this season. That total includes the game-winner in the Class 4A state semifinals against Cedar Park as a freshman.
“Savanna is one of the most technical players we’ve ever had,” said HP head coach Stewart Brown. “She smiles all the time, but behind that smile is one of the most competitive people I’ve ever seen on a soccer field.”
Two HP football players also will share the field beginning next fall, but it won’t be as teammates. Rather, defensive backs Turner Rejebian and Joseph Sweeney signed with rival Division II programs in the Lone Star Conference – Rejebian with West Texas A&M and Sweeney with Angelo State.
In fact, the duo went on a visit to ASU together before Rejebian eventually decided to sign instead with WTAMU.
“It will be good competition,” Rejebian laughed. “We’re still really good friends.”
Both players made key defensive stops to preserve close victories last season for the Scots. Sweeney came up with a big play against North Mesquite, and Rejebian against Mesquite Horn. While Rejebian was a hard-hitting safety, Sweeney was the team’s top cornerback in addition to playing snaps on offense and special teams.
“The facilities are absolutely fantastic. The weight room overlooks the field,” Sweeney said of the San Angelo campus. “It will definitely be an adjustment, but I don’t think I’ll have a hard time making the transition.”
Meanwhile, HP offensive lineman Jack Sides will play Division I football with Army after announcing his commitment to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
“It’s a special opportunity,” said Sides, a third-generation HP football player who started 39 consecutive games for the Scots. “It’s really hard for me to say no to something like that. Plus, it’s big-time football there.”
Also on Wednesday, baseball standouts Grant Howell and Sawyer Lake were recognized for their college commitments. Howell will attend Wheaton College in Illinois, while Lake will play for Swarthmore.
Congrats to these student athletes and their parents, coaches and mentors. They all work really hard to get to this point. Good luck to each of you in college and know that you’re taking lots of HP love with you!