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SPRINGFIELD — Kickapoo routinely provides one of the more difficult signing day gatherins to navigate around in the Ozarks. The Chiefs tend to produce double digit signees every season.
This fall period is no exception as fifteen Chiefs put pen to paper: two at Division I, nine for Division II, and four for the NAIA.
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Tight end Travis Vokolek solidified his decision to attend Rutgers, which he announced over the week. He picked the Scarlet Knights over the likes of Minnesota, Buffalo, Missouri State, and Northern Iowa.
With three tight ends currently on the roster, Vokolek said getting his foot in the door on that position battle was a draw.
“I want to go up there and play as soon as possible,” he said. “If I start training as soon as possible, I can get on the field and try to help the team win. It was attractive knowing there was a lot of opportunity there.”
“I’m looking to go up there and play against the best. The Big Ten is probably the best conference in college football right now. It’s surreal knowing I’ll be playing against the likes of Michigan and Ohio State, but I’m looking forward to it and the challenge.”
Defensive lineman Grant Martin got a handfule of offers from the Division II and NAIA level, but opted to be a preferred walk-on at Missouri State.
“I wanted to play at the highest level and this is the only chance I had, so I’m betting on myself,” Martin said.
He referenced local talent such as Dylan Cole who have come from Southwest Missouri and turned in memorable careers as a motivator for latching on with the Bears.
“Coach (Sean) Coughlin just reminded me that he’s going to put the best kids on the field. It doesn’t matter how big they are or where they’re from.”
The two contributed to 28 wins through their three varsity seasons.
Other signess at Kickapoo included:
Jarod Ozee, Missouri Southern Cross Country
Alex Bossing, William Woods Cross Country
Tyler Bossing, William Woods Cross Country
Tim Cobb, Truman State Cross Country
Crystal Kaylor, Indianapolis Swimming
Zach Peters, Drury Soccer
Ian Hansen, Missouri S&T Soccer
Cole Johnson, Maryville Soccer
Analee Arbeitman, William Jewell Soccer
Sarah Holman, Evangel Soccer
Alyson Reinold, Evangel Soccer
Skylr Houzenga, Southwest Baptist Soccer
Jessica Weedin, Southwest Baptist Soccer
