On Tuesday, May 10 in the SL cafeteria, the runners were officially let loose during B lunch. Many runners do not have what it takes to endure the pain of the sport to the fullest, but seniors Zyanne Baxter and Xavier Chaidez have proved they have what it takes since freshman year. Now in their final days of senior year, the final question had to be locked – where am I going to college? Both their final decisions were signed off today during B lunch n front of hundreds of students and staff.

Baxter has signed to Saint Gregory University  in Oklahoma to run Cross Country and Track with both athletic and academic scholarships and Chaidez has signed to Indiana Institute of Technology to run Cross Country and Track  also with both athletic and academic scholarships.

In an interview with both Zyanne and Xavier, they took the time to answer a few questions:

Zyanne Baxter

Q: Why did you lock your final decision with particular college/university?

I chose this college because of the coach. She came into contact with me through an athletic recruiting website called NCSA and has been asking for updates in my cross country and track races. The school has a great running program and a small campus so I should be able to get help in my classes.

Q: Are you scared at all about the transition (moving out of state)?

I’m not scared but excited! I have always wanted an adventure because I’ve lived here for the past 12 years of my life. I’m just ready for something new.

Q: How did your parents react to your final decision?

My mother is of course sad that I’m moving so far but she has always supported me and is excited for me to experience the world. My father is excited to watch me improve in cross country & track and get my degree. 

Q: What advice do you have for our athletes as you go off to college?

If someone is seriously interested in playing sports in college, I would recommend going on to NCSA and applying for the grant to participate for free. Without that organization, I would have never been able to continue running in college. Always stay on top of their grades and apply for scholarships. Make sure you have a plan after high school and be serious about it.

Xavier Chaidez

Q: Why did you lock your final decision with particular college/university?

I made my final decision with Indiana Institute of Technology because  they wanted me the most and offered me merit and athletic scholarships.

Q: Are you scared at all about the transition (moving out of state)?

I’m excited to move out of state! I’m ready to explore what life has to offer outside of Arizona. 

Q: What advice do you have for our athletes as you go off to college?

Work hard and explore! The world has so much to offer.

(L TO R) Zyanne and her father, Coach Emelander, and Xavier ready for the signing

Xavier and Zyanne cutting their celebration cakes