On Wednesday, April 15, 11 Ozark High School athletes announced that they have committed to play their sport at the collegiate level. Congrats to all of these athletes and we can’t wait to see what they do in the future!

Kaylee Johnson – Cross Country/Track – Crowder College
"Kaylee has been a six-year program athlete, showing a level of dedication that is truly rare. She earned All-COC honors her senior year and was a key part of two conference championship teams and three state qualifying teams. She also contributed to the school-record 5K team time of 19:52 in 2024. Beyond her accomplishments, Kaylee is an incredible leader with a passion for the sport that is unmatched. She focuses on the details, lifts up those around her, and defines what it means to be a true teammate. We will miss her greatly, but we’re excited to see her succeed at the next level." – Mitchell Furtkamp (OHS Cross Country/Track Coach)

Sydney Lister – Cross Country/Track – Oral Roberts University
"Sydney has built an outstanding resume—three-time All-COC honoree, COC champion, three-time All-District and All-Region, and an All-State finisher placing 10th at state. She holds the school record in the 5K at 18:45 and ranks among the best in program history. On the track, she’s a conference champion in the 800 and holds top times in multiple events. What stands out most is her mindset—she embraces challenges and turns setbacks into growth. Sydney is not only an exceptional athlete, but an exceptional person." – Mitchell Furtkamp (OHS Cross Country/Track Coach)

Bria Wright – Track & Field (Heptathlon) – Wichita State University
"From the moment Bria stepped onto the track in seventh grade, we knew she was special. Her work ethic, loyalty, and drive have defined her career. She’s a conference champion, All-State athlete, multi-time state medalist, Springfield Sports Commission Female Track Athlete of the Year, and a school record holder. Competing in the heptathlon at the next level speaks to her elite, all-around ability. It’s been a privilege to coach one of the best athletes—and people—I’ve ever worked with." – Shawn Widel (OHS Girls Track Coach)

Kannon Williams – Track & Field – Pittsburg State University
"Kannon’s journey is a testament to hard work. He showed up to his first practice in jeans, but quickly proved himself through effort and consistency. From an 11.92 as a freshman in the 100, he developed into the fastest athlete in school history, holding records in both the 100 and 200. More importantly, he’s a dependable, positive teammate who elevates everyone around him. We’re incredibly proud of him and excited for what’s ahead." – Justin Emmerton (OHS Track Coach)

Ryley Garcia – Cheer – Iowa Western Community College
"Ryley took a chance on something new and completely changed our program. He showed up every day, worked relentlessly, and exceeded every expectation. In just one year, he developed college-level skills and became an All-State athlete—something you rarely see. His impact on our program goes far beyond performance. We are so proud of him and everything he’s accomplished." – Tess Keller (OHS Cheer Coach)

Andreas Rosario – Cheer – Pittsburg State University
"Andreas embraced every challenge that came his way. From teaching himself skills to overcoming injuries, he showed incredible determination. In less than a year, he developed into an All-State athlete with college-level ability. His growth speaks volumes about his character and work ethic. He’s made a lasting impact on our program, and we’re excited to see what he does next." – Tess Keller (OHS Cheer Coach)

Christian Kropf – Swimming – Wabash College
"Christian’s commitment is unmatched—traveling daily for practice and putting in the work year after year. He developed into a leader and finished his career as an All-State swimmer, placing eighth in the 500 freestyle. His journey is a testament to perseverance and dedication. We couldn’t be more proud of him." – Steve Boyce (OHS Swim Coach)

Braxton Degase – Football – Missouri University of Science and Technology
"Braxton represents everything you want in a student-athlete. He’s a leader, a top student, and someone who does the hard, often unseen work on the field. His consistency, mindset, and ability to put the team first set him apart. Missouri S&T is a perfect fit for him as he continues both his academic and athletic career. We’re incredibly proud of him." – Jeremy Cordell (OHS Football Coach)

Peyton Russell – Football – Evangel University
"Peyton’s dedication to the game is unmatched. He leaves as the all-time leader in passing yards—a reflection of his preparation, leadership, and work ethic. He’s been the heartbeat of our offense and an incredible teammate. The respect he’s earned from those around him says everything about who he is." – Jeremy Cordell (OHS Football Coach)

Teagon Patterson – Wrestling – Labette Community College
"Teagon has been a key part of championship teams and has shown consistent growth throughout his career. More importantly, he’s made those around him better and strengthened our program. His commitment to improvement and his team-first mindset define who he is. We’re proud of him and excited for his future." – Tod Sundlie (OHS Wrestling Coach)