USD 308 Communications
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School Athletic Director Steve Kappenman announced seven student-athletes have committed to continue their athletic careers on Winter Signing Day. Read more about each student below.
Myka Thompson signs with Butler Community College volleyball
Hutchinson High School senior Myka Thompson has signed to continue her volleyball career at Butler Community College, where she will compete for the Grizzlies this fall.
A dominant presence on the court, Thompson chose Butler for its competitive volleyball program and coaching staff’s emphasis on discipline, effort and continuous improvement. She plans to major in nursing, aligning her academic goals with a passion for service, leadership and caring for others.
Thompson leaves Hutchinson as an accomplished student-athlete. She earned AVCTL Division I First Team honors and was named AVCTL Division I Most Valuable Player. A three-year varsity starter, she also served as team captain for two seasons, leading through consistency, toughness and competitive drive.
Beyond volleyball, Thompson competed in basketball and bowling and was active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Junior and Senior Leaders, Student Council and Briny Birds.
“Myka is an incredible leader on and off the court,” HHS coach Josie Armstrong said. “Her work ethic is unmatched. She is a great athlete and an even better person.”
At Butler, Thompson will enroll in the Associate of Applied Science nursing program, which prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Jeremyah Gaitho-Karanu signs with Lincoln University football
Hutchinson senior Jeremyah Gaitho-Karanu has signed to continue his football career at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, joining the Blue Tigers at the NCAA Division II level.
A powerful running back, Gaitho-Karanu earned AVCTL Division I All-League Honorable Mention honors. Known for his strength, vision and toughness, he consistently made an impact on and off the field.
He will compete in the Great Lakes Valley Conference and plans to major in finance.
Lincoln University is a public, historically Black, land-grant institution with approximately 2,250 students and offers comprehensive finance degree programs.
Jaden Durant signs with Seward County Community College softball
Hutchinson senior Jaden Durant has signed to continue her softball career at Seward County Community College, where she will compete for the Saints.
Durant lettered three years in varsity softball and also served as varsity wrestling manager for two seasons, demonstrating leadership and commitment to her teammates.
She plans to major in sports medicine with an interest in athletic training and athlete care.
Seward County offers a two-year Associate of Science program emphasizing injury prevention, care and rehabilitation.
Stephanie Jenkins signs with Missouri Valley College dance
Hutchinson senior Stephanie Jenkins has signed to continue her dance career at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri, joining the Viking Dance Team.
Jenkins connected with the coaching staff during her campus visit and was drawn to the welcoming environment and strong academic support.
She was active in the Salthawk Dance Team, Student Council, HOSA and Junior and Senior Leaders. Jenkins also earned honor roll and principal’s honor roll recognition and was named Student of the Week twice.
She plans to major in psychology and counseling.
Kylan Mendoza commits to Sterling College football
Hutchinson senior Kylan Mendoza has committed to continue his football career at Sterling College, where he will play for the Warriors.
A key offensive lineman, Mendoza earned All-League Second Team honors, All-State Honorable Mention and recognition on the Sports in Kansas Top 100 Seniors list.
He plans to major in sports medicine.
Sterling is a private four-year college competing in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Jenna Giles signs with Friends University cheer
Hutchinson senior Jenna Giles has signed to continue her cheer career at Friends University in Wichita, where she will join her sister Hannah on the team.
Giles lettered in cheer and soccer and was active in Junior and Senior Leaders, Salthawk Threads, HOSA, Student Council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
She plans to major in health sciences.
Friends University enrolls approximately 2,000 students and offers a variety of academic programs in a student-focused environment.
Tramel Walker signs with Southern Nazarene University football
Hutchinson senior Tramel Walker has signed to continue his athletic career at Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma, where he will compete for the Crimson Storm football team.
Walker competed in football, basketball and track and was active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Powder Puff and Ironman activities. His honors include Ad Astra Radio Athlete of the Week, state track qualifier and AVCTL All-League recognition.
He plans to major in kinesiology and pursue physical therapy licensure.
Walker chose Southern Nazarene for its Christian values, community atmosphere and academic opportunities and received a full-ride scholarship.
