In the heart of Saranac Lake, several talented athletes are making waves as they secure NCAA Division I scholarships. Their journeys, although unique, all showcase determination and hard work on their paths to achieving their sports dreams.
Among those athletes is Jake Kollmer, a high school standout from Saranac Lake, who committed to run cross country and track and field at the University of New Hampshire. Likewise, Dominic DeAngelo from Plattsburgh has signed on to play football at Wagner College. Soccer star Grace McCasland from Beekmantown has committed to Binghamton University for women’s soccer, while fellow Beekmantown athlete Steven Bronson has chosen to play baseball at Manhattan College.
Some athletes, like Markus Navarra, decided to take a different road. After moving on from Saranac Lake, he played basketball at two different prep schools before earning a scholarship at Youngstown State University. He highlighted the intensity of competition he faced, which he believes was crucial for attracting attention from Division I coaches. “You just have to put yourself in the right position and be willing to make sacrifices,” Navarra noted, reflecting on the experiences he gained during his time away from home.
Another local athlete, Jesse Giddings, also took the prep school route, transferring to Milton Academy in Massachusetts. Giddings found himself challenged each week playing against top football talent, which helped him commit to James Madison University. As he explained, “I go against guys that either are committed to Division I schools or have offers.”
On the other hand, some athletes like McCasland and Bronson chose to stay in their hometown to pursue their dreams. McCasland honed her skills through various programs, including the prestigious Olympic Development Program. “I feel the ODP program has helped me so much,” she said, showcasing how vital mental preparation is to succeed in sports.
Meanwhile, Bronson attributed much of his success to his local roots and support from his Beekmantown coaches. Even while competing for travel baseball teams, he credits his hometown for providing him access to training facilities. “I give it almost all the credit,” Bronson said, emphasizing the opportunities that his school provided.
All these athletes agree that reaching the pinnacle of college sports requires immense effort. “It’s taken a lot more than probably a lot of people think,” Giddings remarked, highlighting the need for dedication and perseverance. Each of them inspires others in Saranac Lake and beyond, proving that with hard work and commitment, dreams can be realized.
