Central High Celebrates Commitment, Character, and College Dreams on Signing Day

Central High School’s Signing Day ceremony was more than a celebration of athletic talent — it was a powerful tribute to hard work, academic dedication, family sacrifice, and perseverance.

Administrators opened the ceremony by reminding everyone that Signing Day represents years of effort, not just performance on the field.

“So often, students think it’s only about how great they are at the game, but these young men and women are recognized as student-athletes,” said Central High Activities and Athletics Director Scott Borcherding. “Today represents the work they’ve done in the classroom and the work they’ve done in practices and competitions to develop their skills to the collegiate level, and the unwavering support of families, coaches, and teachers.”

Four outstanding student-athletes were recognized for earning the opportunity to continue both their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.

Caeyson Hornberger signed with Ottawa University, where he plans to play football and potentially baseball. As a four-year football player at Hazelwood Central and a baseball participant, Caeyson plans to major in civil engineering and become a construction manager, and one day reach the NFL.

For Caeyson, the decision came down to belonging.

“When I visited, it felt like home. All the coaches, all the players — they welcomed me. I fell in love as soon as I walked in the door.”

His advice to future student-athletes was simple and powerful: “Keep going. Don’t let anybody ever tell you what you can’t do. You pick your own journey.”

Da’Marion Smith signed to play football at Millikin University, where he will compete as a running back. Da'Marion, a 12-year football player and a member of the wrestling team, plans to major in agriculture and dreams of either working in the field or pursuing a career in the NFL. Reflecting on his signing experience, Da’Marion described a mix of nerves and pride.

“It was a big feeling. It’s hard to explain — something you don’t fully put together until you’re there.”

He emphasized the importance of independence, academics, and health.

“Freshman year is the most important year. Don’t struggle getting your GPA back up. Also, always take care of your body and your mental health first.”

Julia “Jewels” Bockhorst signed with Missouri Baptist University to continue her soccer career under Coach Deno Merrick. Her résumé is extraordinary: team captain, all-conference honors, offensive player of the year, athletic scholar, and involvement in volleyball, swimming, student council, National Honor Society, and more. Yet, Julia credits her success to consistent effort and balance.

“Academics have always been my top priority. I always want the best version of myself in everything.”

When she learned she would be signing, she felt relief and excitement.

“It was a huge relief, finding the right school for you is such an amazing opportunity.”

Her advice to future athletes acknowledged the challenges along the way. “You’re going to have rainy days. It’s okay. Not every day goes 100 percent, and that’s going to help you in the long run.”

Otis Banks III signed with Wabash College in Indiana after 10 years of football, including four at Hazelwood Central, where he served as a team captain for three years. A back-to-back second-team all-conference honoree, Otis also participates in track and field and plans to major in mechanical or aerospace engineering to become a missile engineer.

For Otis, Signing Day was filled with gratitude. “I’m just happy. I thank my parents and everybody who helped me, especially my coaches. They helped build my manhood — not just my football skills.”

His advice centered on patience and faith.

“Be patient. Sometimes it’s hard, but I kept praying, and God put it on my heart that this was the college for me.”

The ceremony also honored the unwavering support of families, coaches, and teachers. Borcherding remarked, “This ceremony represents the dedication of their parents and families who have sacrificed so many hours to ensure these students have the opportunity to succeed.”

The ceremony concluded with applause, photos, and pride as each student-athlete stood to recognize the people who helped them reach this milestone.

Signing Day at Central High served as a reminder that success is built on discipline, support, resilience, and belief — and that these students are not only prepared for the next level of competition, but also for the next chapter of life.

Congratulations to our Central High signees — your future is just getting started! We are looking forward to the Signing Days for East High and West High, which will take place later this semester.