By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
Prior to last month’s graduation, several Pennsauken High School seniors made commitments to further their academic and athletic careers in college.
Brianni Lugo will be attending Central Methodist University, Missouri and playing soccer; Philip Nguyen is headed to Rutgers University, Camden and will run cross country; Aaron Chester has committed to Manor College and will play soccer; and Braheem Whitfield has selected Rowan University and will join their track and field team.
“Coaches, friends, family, and teammates are here to celebrate four of our outstanding student-athletes as they sign letters of intent to participate in inter-collegiate athletics,” says Eric Mossop, athletic director at Pennsauken High School, who addressed those in attendance at the signing ceremony. “Thank you to all those who helped pushed these kids to the next level; without your support, they wouldn’t be here today. It truly takes a village and we have a village here to celebrate everybody signing.”
Brianni, an all conference soccer player in high school, plans to major in communications, focusing on media and broadcasting. She feels the assets and skills she’s developed at Pennsauken High School have prepared her for college.
“Academically, I bring a lot to the table. On the field I’m bringing hustle and heart,” says Lugo.
“I’m very excited and proud of my daughter,” says Louis Lugo, Brianni’s father. “I will continue to support her as much as I can and continue to encourage Brianni in her future dreams, both in soccer and in academics.”
Philip Nguyen, who was all conference in cross country and track and field, is excited to join the Rutgers Scarlet Knights as a business major.
“I think they have a great program for cross country and academics,” explains Nguyen.
Philip also chose Rutgers’ Camden campus as it’s close to home, something his father, Steve Nguyen, appreciates.
“I’m very happy and excited for my son,” says Steve. “I want him to have everything.”
Aaron Chester, an all state goalie for the Indians, is planning to use his education as a way to give back to his home town.
“I’m majoring in health and physical education with the intent to come back and teach at the high school,” explains Aaron.
His parents, Rich and Donna Chester, are extremely happy for their son.
“He made [the decision] on his own,” says Rich. “He’s quite content.”
“We’re very, very proud of him,” adds Donna. “He has come a long way and he will be a great college student on and off the field.”
Multiple time state champion Braheem Whitfield has chosen to study criminal justice at Rowan. Focusing on keeping his grades up, he hasn’t picked out any athletic goals he’s looking to achieve.
“I just want to be the best runner I can be,” says Braheem. “I want to focus on the education part. The track will take care of itself.”
Braheem had a small army of family in attendance for his letter signing. But it was someone special who could only be there in spirit that was in the front of everyone’s mind.
“I remember at his mom’s funeral, Braheem wrote a letter to her saying that she wouldn’t be able to see him go off to college,” says Tatiana, Whitfield’s aunt and Rowan alumnus. “But he kept every promise and we’re very proud of him.”
With the strong support of family and a solid educational from Pennsauken Public Schools, expect to see some great things from these talented student-athletes.
