By Lauren Zulick ’25
As the school year goes on, the Ursuline community has a lot to celebrate, especially the achievements of seven amazing student-athletes who have committed to play sports in college. These talented young women have not only done well in their sports but have also shown a strong commitment to their studies and to helping their community. Their journeys to this important moment in their lives reflect their hard work, determination and love for their chosen sports.
In the senior class, there have been many recent commits.
Bella Scucchi, Ursuline senior, has made a name for herself in golf and has verbally committed to Washington and Lee University. Bella’s journey in golf has been marked by hard work and she is excited to compete at the college level. Her focus on both her sport and her studies shows her determination to make the most of her collegiate experience.
There have been many volleyball commits from the senior class, including two to the same school.
Emma Sorenson, Ursuline senior, has committed to continue her volleyball career at the College of Holy Cross. Emma’s dedication to volleyball and her strong academic performance shows her desire to excel in all areas of her life. She demonstrates that it’s possible to balance sports and academics with discipline and focus.
Sophia Thornburg, Ursuline senior, has verbally committed to Notre Dame for volleyball. Sophia is excited to continue her volleyball career at Notre Dame along with another Ursuline senior, Chichi Nnaji.
Chichi Nnaji, Ursuline senior, has also verbally committed to Notre Dame for volleyball. Chichi is so excited to continue her journey at Notre Dame especially with her close teammate, Sophia Thornburg ’25.
As the recruiting season for the Class of 2026 is opening up, many Ursuline juniors have been working with college coaches.
Most recently, Emerson Chen, Ursuline junior, committed to continue her academic and lacrosse career at Furman University. Emerson is passionate about lacrosse and excels in her studies, making her a well-rounded student-athlete. Her excitement for the game and her dedication to academics has set a positive example for her classmates.
There have been a few soccer commits from the junior class, with some staying close to home and some going across the ocean.
Ryan Fogel, Ursuline junior, is another talented athlete who has committed to play soccer at the University of Hawaii. Ryan is looking forward to competing at the collegiate level where she will face new challenges that will help her grow as an athlete. Her determination shows that she is ready for this next step and she is eager to make the most of her college experience.
Mimi Flanagan, Ursuline junior, has also committed to continue her soccer journey at the University of Tennessee. She is excited about playing soccer in college and hopes to inspire others through her athletic achievements. Mimi’s positive attitude and hard work show how important dedication is both on the field and in the classroom.
Another soccer player, Makenzie Majors, Ursuline junior, has verbally committed to Texas Christian University. Makenzie is thrilled about the opportunities ahead especially the chance to compete at a higher level and learn from experienced coaches. Her eagerness to improve and passion for the game highlight her dedication to becoming the best athlete she can be.
These seven athletes truly represent commitment and excellence in sports. Their decisions to play at the college level are significant milestones in their journeys and will lead to even more achievements in the future.
As they move into this new chapter of their lives, they bring valuable lessons, friendships and memories from their high school years. They are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with college athletics. Each of these young women serves as an inspiration showing that hard work and dedication can open new doors and lead to exciting experiences.
The Ursuline community is proud of their accomplishments and looks forward to watching them thrive in their collegiate endeavors.
THE BEAR FACTS 