However, the opportunity to play sports at the college level isn’t easy to come by today. With the cost of tuition rising each year, many students need scholarships in order to even have the chance of attending.

It is the dream of many high school athletes to continue their career in the sport they love. For a few seniors from the class of 2012, that dream is coming true.

Besides talent, this year’s scholar athletes have had to focus not only on their sport, but on academic performance, and overall involvement in the community.

Senior Paul Ausum’s advice for underclassmen is to “work hard, do all of the little things—they count. Set a long term goal, and work towards it day by day, you never know what you can achieve.”

Paul Ausum- Hillsdale University

From left to right, Cody Snavely, Brian Kettle, Shawn Welch and Paul Ausum pose together after the indoor state finals held at Eastern Michigan University. Ausum will continue his running career at Hillsdale University this Fall.

Nearly 18 years old, Ausum already has a lot going for him. Planning on majoring in either pre-law or pre-med, the track and cross country champ is signed withHillsdaleUniversity.

Ausum received offers from various schools but decided on Hillsdale upon taking a campus visit.

“I fell in love with the Hillsdale campus,” stated Ausum. “The coaching staff was great and the impression I got from the team made me want to a part of it. Plus, they recently added an indoor track which was really appealing.”

With more than five years of running experience, Ausum has come far from where he initially started. “I’m blessed at MHS with the support of my teammates,” stated Ausum. “I couldn’t have asked for a better set-up to fuel my career in running.”

Looking back, Ausum realizes that the long practices, stressful meets, and sacrifices he made were worth it in the long run.  “It was definitely worth everything I’ve been through and I had to go through it to get where I am today.”

Dagny Stark- Macomb Community College

Continuing her volleyball career with confidence, Senior Dagny Stark is determined to go pro. Although currently undecided on what education path she wants to follow, Stark is excited to see what the next two years at Macomb will have in store for her.

Unlike most high school players, Stark’s parents have been a part of her team—but as the coaches. “It was my choice to continue my volleyball career,” said Stark. “My parents were very supportive and really encouraged me to make the best decision for me.”

“I want to become pro,” stated Stark in a matter-of-fact way.

While some athletes dread going to practice day after day, Stark has a positive outlook. “If you love the sport, it shouldn’t feel like work.”

Stark’s advises underclassmen to continue to work hard, apply themselves, and keep playing. “Search for every opportunity,” Stark explained. “Put yourself out there. You never know what the outcome may be.”

Brandon Wallace- University of Dayton

Talented athlete Brandon Wallace is anxious to start the next football season in Dayton, Ohio. Given a roster spot on the team, Wallace will play the position of running back for the team this upcoming Fall.

Growing up playing for Milford teams, Wallace now has more than 10 years of experience with this sport.  “My dad was supportive—which was very important to me,” stated Wallace.  “I made the decision to go here versus other schools because I wanted to be closer to my family.”

Besides location, the University of Dayton has a great medical program, in which Wallace hopes to enroll. “This is exactly what I was looking for,” said Wallace.

Moving out of state will definitely be a big change for this athlete, but Wallace is prepared for whatever comes his way.

With only so many spots on the team reserved for each graduating class, it is a “great opportunity and I feel privileged,” stated Wallace.  “It also comes with hard work and a lot of responsibility.”

Reflecting on his career Wallace said, “I put in a lot of work and effort to get to this point and I’m continuing to do so.”  For athletes aspiring to play at the college level, Wallace recommends working hard on the field and equally as hard in the classroom.

Football has impacted Wallace beyond his time on the field. “It’s given me motivation. I always strive to be the best and I’m super competitive,” chuckled Wallace. “Football has definitely influenced my life in other ways and it always will.”

Katelyn Sakkinen- Northwood University

“Golf will always be a part of my life,” said Senior Katelyn Sakkinen.

Although anxious for the upcoming golf season to begin, Sakkinen is excited to be amongst the newest members of the Northwood team, and will be joining former teammate and friend Emily Vergin, MHS graduate who currently plays for Northwood.

Entering Northwood with a set scholarship of $7,000; Sakkinen will have the opportunity to increase the amount based on how well she plays throughout the season.

Sakkinen plans to go into business and is glad that Northwood is highly recognized for their business programs along with their elite golf reputation.

“I’ve only been playing for three years,” said Sakkinen. “I feel so lucky to have this opportunity right from the start.”

“It’s going to be a big adjustment,” stated Sakkinen. “I’m definitely going to miss all of my friends from the MHS team, we’re all really close.” According to Sakkinen, the dedication, time and sacrifices were all worth it in the long run to get to where she is at today.