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Three Norfolk Academy seniors committed on April 30 to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

The three add to a long list of Bulldogs playing college sports. Eight seniors signed during a fall ceremony and there are currently several dozen NA alums competing at the collegiate level, in a variety of sports and at a variety of divisions.

🥍Jack Croke, Lacrosse, University of Mary Washington

⛵ Eliana Mopper, Sailing, Tufts University

🏃‍♀️ Emma Uncapher, Track and Field, Washington and Lee University

Steve Monninger, a liaison between the College Counseling and Athletics departments, credited all three for being exceptional  students and athletes.

“Your commitment to excellence has not just been limited to the classroom," Monninger said. “You have been model Bulldogs, exemplifying respect, commitment, toughness, and spirit on a day-to-day basis. Your impact on Norfolk Academy athletically will be ever-lasting."

At signing ceremony, each student-athlete gave heartfelt thanks to family, friends, teachers, coaches, teammates, and others.

A few samples:

Croke took up lacrosse in middle school at the urging of his parents, who encouraged him to try something new. “Looking back at it, I learned two very important lessons. Trust your parents and even though it's cliche, never be afraid of failure. Because often our brightest moments stem from it."

Mopper took up rowing during Covid. She loved every aspect and quickly found success, making varsity as a freshman. “In the end, WE got into Tufts," Mopper said. "All the team regattas, our team bonding, my friendships outside of sailing, and me."

Uncapher thanked not just her track and field coaches, but everyone in NA's Athletics department. “I want to thank all of my coaches at NA for encouraging me to do my best on and off the track."

More on NA's fall Signing Day