Three Pampa student-athletes are taking their games to the next level after signing letters of intent on Wednesday afternoon in the Rotunda at Pampa High School.
Senior baseball players Judsen Hancock and Brooks Barton signed to Hendrix University (Conway, Ark.) and McMurry University (Abilene), respectively. Senior cheerleader Andrea Ponce signed with Wayland Baptist University (Plainview).
For Head Baseball Coach Austin Samulowitz, it’s two seniors that have been with his program since they were freshmen.
“It’s awesome. Their four years of hard work is paying off,” Samulowitz said. “They both played some summer ball. They both grinded it out every season. It’s a good look for them and good look for the program.”
Samulowitz talked about the skills the pair had that made them great Harvesters.
“Judsen’s tenacity and willingness to want the ball in tough situations means more to me than a lot. That’s what you want for every guy,” Samulowitz said. “Brooks has the ability to never give up and keep grinding. He always shows up with a smile. I’ve enjoyed coaching both of them.”
Head Cheerleading Coach Regina Anderson said Ponce always approached every cheer event with energy and spirit.
“When she was out there, she brought great energy and a positive spirit that connected well with the team and the crowd,” Anderson said. The Wayland crowd is going to love cheering along with her. It’s always exciting to see a student take that next step and cheer in college, and we wish her the best as she continues doing what she loves.”
Brooks Barton
What made you choose Hendrix University?
“When I got there it felt like home and everything about it just felt right,” Barton said. “ I wasn’t worried or anything. After I left I just knew it’s where I needed to be.”
What has Pampa baseball done for you?
“They were there for me every step of the way,” Barton said. “They helped me to get where I’m at.”
Major
Pre-Dental
Judsen Hancock
What made you choose McMurry?
“McMurry felt like home to me,” Hancock said. “As soon as I visited, I knew it was my place. Campus there is amazing, coaches are amazing, it’s a good place.”
What did Pampa baseball do for you?
“I’m proud of our team this year. Last year we didn’t do anything special. But this year we bonded, fought through our hard times and made the playoffs. It’s been great.”
Major
Business.
Andrea Ponce
What made you choose Wayland Baptist University?
“I picked Wayland because it was a good opportunity,” Ponce said. “They have a good psychology program that helps me graduate one year earlier than I was supposed to. I want to be a child psychologist and it’s a 10-year program. They gave me a good scholarship for cheer so I get to continue cheering and doing what I love.”
What has Pampa cheer done for you?
“They’ve done everything, they’ve been amazing. They taught me to be more confident in myself and the things that I do.”
Major
Child psychology
