Pride and excitement filled the room on Dec. 3, 2025,  as six talented student-athletes officially signed their letters of intent to compete at the collegiate level. The signing day ceremony highlighted years of dedication, hard work, and community support that helped shape each athlete’s journey. Surrounded by cheering families, friends, and coaches, the signees celebrated not just their achievements but the bright futures that await them in college athletics.

Among the signees, Duncan McGhee and Tradarian Ball are taking their commitment a step further by graduating early to join their college teams ahead of schedule. Leaving home a semester early underscores their dedication and drive, while their fellow athletes finish the year strong by taking year-long classes at Texas High School.

Hard Work, Hometown and Heart

Staying true to her roots, Senior Preslie Clopp is taking her talents from the local fields to the collegiate stage right here in Texarkana. With her eyes set on the next level, Clopp committed to Texas A&M Texarkana to continue her academic career while joining the Eagles softball team. This dynamic environment perfectly aligns with Clopp’s dedication to excel on the diamond alongside her studies.

Playing high school softball allowed her to learn how to balance a busy schedule. She works hard in and out of school, keeping her grades up and making sure she gets assignments turned in on time. 

“I play first base and I enjoy double plays and throw downs to third,” Clopp said. “I feel like I’m part of the main attention on the field.” 

With her dad coaching her throughout her travel ball years, he constantly taught and motivated her to give her best effort. Those efforts clearly show on and off the field as she keeps achieving her goals. 

“The campus was very pretty [and] there was no doubt that I was going there,” Clopp said. “What got me here was my work ethic, I would say. Just putting in all the hard work over the past few years.” 

Tony McKnight, head coach of the Texas A&M Texarkana Eagles softball team, extended an invitation to Clopp throughout the summer to join team practices. From those sessions, Clopp showed strong dedication and commitment to the team.

“I plan on going to A&M for at least two years to major in kinesiology,” Clopp said. “Then, [I’m] going to Southern Arkansas University and becoming an ultrasound technician.”

After college, Clopp plans to relocate to a place such as Oklahoma. In the meantime, she feels content in her current spot and intends to make the most of her opportunities. 

“It’s really cool, this is a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” Clopp said. “I’m very grateful to be where I am today.”

From Orange and Black to Blue and Gold

Beneath the glow that marked his beginning, senior Damien Chisum steps forward to write the next chapter, this time on a college field. Every yard, every play, and every lesson from the past four years fuels his next step forward. What once started as a childhood dream now turns into the next great challenge, and he’s stepping into it with confidence, gratitude, and fire in his heart.

Chisum continues his journey at Southern Arkansas University, ready to bring his determination and work ethic to the next level. The Muleriders welcome not only a skilled athlete but a leader forged through years of hard work, perseverance, and passion for the game.

“I’m going to SAU because of the cultural connection with the players and coaches,” Chisum said. “It feels like a family with people who truly want to give their all for their team.”

Chisum credits his coaches and parents, acknowledging the time and money they invest to create a strong foundation for his future. Their dedication fuels his drive, letting his dad relive a piece of his own past while cheering him on in the present.

“The person who has inspired me to continue my football career is definitely my dad,” Chisum said. “He went to SAU as well, with his college football career ending early with injury.”

Coach or player, the team tackles every task with a smile. On and off the field, the bond between them and their love for the game shines through. 

“I see myself fitting in well with the guys down there because of our willpower and mindsets,” Chisum said. “We get along and share the same interests at heart. One thing on our minds [is] winning through hard work and dedication.”

He encourages younger players just starting their football journey to embrace the tough moments fully. Every challenge shapes character and teaches lessons that go beyond the game. In his eyes, pushing through the hard parts creates not only stronger athletes but stronger people.

“It’s going to be hard, your body will give out, but never let your mindset,” Chisum said. “Stick together and do right by your team every day, no matter the circumstance.”

As his high school career nears its end, Chisum reflects on the lessons, challenges, and relationships that shape both the player and the person he becomes.

“Being a part of TISD and Texas High Football has influenced me in the form of molding me into a better person,” Chisum said. “Teachers and Coaches have played a big part in that, with truly wanting the best for the kids. They’ve taught me resilience, respect, and being a leader for those who need it.”

Running Into The Future 

As he leaps through the finish line, senior Justin Arnold counts every half second, fiercely chasing personal bests that pass his own expectations. With grit in his heart and fire in his feet, each stride draws power from the unwavering support system behind him, lifting him higher when the race grows tough.

Every finish line marks a new beginning, and for Arnold, pushing to beat personal bests means more than just a goal. Through sweat and effort, running transforms into vaulting toward a future filled with unstoppable momentum. His relentless drive earns him the exciting opportunity to sign his commitment to Henderson State University, taking his talents to the next level.

“I decided to go to Henderson State University,” Arnold said. “It is not too far from here, and it is a great college.”

Reflecting on high school achievements that shaped his journey, Arnold views the decision as a giant step forward in his athletic career, launching the next chapter with tougher competitions and higher expectations.

“I am excited about going to compete with Henderson State,” Arnold said. “I am [also] looking forward to running a 47 [second] 400 [meter] and a 21 [second] 200 [meter].”

The support Arnold receives propels him toward remarkable achievements, fueling relentless progress both on the track and in life. Family, coaches, and teammates stand as pillars, inspiring every sprint while building character that extends far beyond competitions. 

“My biggest supporter has been my mom,” Arnold said.”[Along with] my dad and coach Stanford.”

Arnold shares advice for younger student-athletes dreaming of signing someday, stressing that true success demands unwavering dedication that goes far beyond mere natural talent alone.

“Do all of the workouts, train and practice hard,” Arnold said.  “[Also], make it to practice on time and stay consistent.”

Pressure Makes Diamonds; Diamonds Create Opportunities

In the bright lights and pressure of the diamond flowing through every athlete, nine players take the field, each ready to shine, but one stands out for his relentless dedication. Senior multiathlete Kameron Wrightner, known for his speed, teamwork, and determination, now turns the page to a new chapter in his baseball journey.  

After an impressive high school career that included four years on the varsity baseball team, Wrightner signed his name to the next chapter, following his final season as a Tiger. Committing to Texas A&M Texarkana, he aims to take a major step forward and build a name for himself as an Eagle. 

“I’ve made so many memories with baseball, especially the bus rides,” Wrightner said. “I’m looking forward to finishing my senior year with my brothers and making the most of it.”

Wrightner plays center field and pitches. His speed helps him chase down fly balls, creating more outs and preventing runs. Reflecting on his high school success, Wrightner now looks ahead to the next era. 

“I’m going to Texas A&M Texarkana to play baseball,” Wrightner said. “I wanted to attend the university because I’ve known the coach for a while, plus you can’t beat a full ride in college [and] helping out my family’s pockets.”

Wrightner dedicated most of his time to working hard and training for baseball. He puts in extra work and attends hitting lessons with Louisiana State University alumnus Cedrick Harris.

¨My hitting coach inspired me,¨ Wrightner said. ¨After seeing him do big things in college and make it pro, I can tell he really sees a bright future with my talent and I want to make everything [we] worked for worth it.¨

Not only will he excel in performance, but he will blend seamlessly with the rest of the team. He looks forward to reuniting with former teammates and celebrating future success together. Wrightner looks back with pride on his accomplishments while imagining the possibilities to come.  

¨I would tell my younger self to keep grinding and to keep pushing even when things get hard,¨ Wrightner said. ¨The sun is always brighter on the other side.¨

Frog Leap Begins

Under the Friday night lights, senior Duncan McGhee shines as more than just a player. He serves as both a motivator and role model for everyone around him by leading by example and encouraging his peers to keep pushing through. McGhee strives to make sure his teammates are trying their best on and off the field.

McGhee receives immense support from his teammates, coaches and community as he makes a big commitment to further his football career. He ensures to leave his legacy at Texas High School, moving on to Texas Christian University.

“I chose TCU because of the coaches and the environment,” McGhee said. “The coaches, players and teachers have created a welcoming environment.”

Support across campus extends into McGhee’s life, where some of the closest people to him play a crucial role in his journey. Without guidance from family and role models, an athlete faces the challenge alone, fighting to stay strong through every obstacle.

“I say my biggest supporters are my family and my coaches,” McGhee said. “They show up from technical practice, coming to my games, and all the hours they put into me.”

Being planted in a steady support system, McGhee is eager to take the advice given to him throughout the years to start his own chapter in his upcoming life. 

“I’m excited for my college football career and to be another member of my family that will be going to college,” McGhee said. “Also making new friends and starting part of my life and journey.”

Through each challenge McGhee faced, he learned to keep hope alive and focus on what lies ahead.

“[My] biggest lesson is, never give up,” McGhee said. “No matter how hard it is, as long as you push through, there’s always a reward.”

Born To Fly Higher

Electric in the backfield and focused in the classroom, Senior Tradarian Ball now turns his sights to Eugene, Oregon. Ball committed to the University of Oregon to advance his academic and athletic pursuits. He plans to major in sports business and chase a path to the National Football League.

His journey reflects years of dedication, discipline and countless hours spent refining his craft. From early mornings in the weight room to late nights studying film, Ball built a foundation grounded in hard work and vision. Now, he carries that same determination to the next level, ready to make an impact as both a student and an athlete.

“Playing football has made my high school experience better,” Ball said. “It has made me close with a lot of people and a lot of coaches, making new friends, and just really shows what it means to be committed to something.”

With the support of coaches and family, Ball turned every opportunity into growth. Four seasons on varsity gave him time to discover his identity as an athlete and refine his craft.

“My mom, dad, and Coach Sutton made me be better as an athlete,” Ball said. “Coach Sutton [has helped by] just coaching me up to be a good running back and just working hard. My mom and dad have taught me dedication and just commitment and being able to get through hard times.”

Ball excels at running back and wide receiver, two demanding positions that demand constant contact, collisions, patience, and sharp footwork. Hard work and dedication propel Ball to seize opportunities and forge strong bonds with coaches and players in Eugene.

“I’m going there because I have built an incredible bond with the coaches and players,” Ball said. “They’ve been with me since day one and they’ve always helped me through high school.”

Ball envisions a seamless fit at Oregon. He calls Eugene a “big, small town” brimming with support. Bittersweet emotions stir as community pride swells around his achievements.

“It feels good to know I have the ones that have been here and stuck with me through it all through the sandbox,” Ball said. “It just feels good to know that I have a lot of supporters.”