WINDERMERE, FL - On Wednesday, November 8, National Signing Day, four seniors at Windermere Prep signed their commitment letters to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Kirah Bolanovich will continue her beach volleyball career at the College of Charleston, Alicia Qian will continue her golf career at Santa Clara University, Sophia Zheng will continue her golf career at the University of California Irvine and Morgan Coughlin will continue her volleyball career at Rollins College. 

Patrick Hollern, the Director of Athletics at Windermere Prep, expressed his congratulations to Kirah, Alicia, Sophia, and Morgan, as well as their families, on this incredible opportunity. "These four student-athletes have consistently demonstrated excellence both academically and in the realm of sports throughout their scholastic journeys. We firmly believe that the valuable lessons they have acquired in the classroom and on the field, as Lakers, will propel them towards success in their future endeavors."

Kirah Bolanovich - Beach Volleyball - College of Charleston

Kirah, a letterwinner in both indoor and beach volleyball, found success not only in volleyball, but also excelled in the classroom. During her time as a Laker, Kirah was the Student Government Executive Vice President and a two-time Student-Athlete of the Week. During her volleyball career at Windermere Prep, Kirah led the Lakers to four district championships and five league championships. She was also named to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association All-State Academic Team. 

On choosing to attend the College of Charleston, Kirah said, "my decision to commit to the College of Charleston was an easy one. From the moment I met the team, I knew I had found my future family. The culture at Charleston is one of a kind, and I immediately connected with each and every member of the program. With the welcoming staff, plethora of academic and professional opportunities, and the amazing city of Charleston, I know COFC is the school for me!"

Of her experience at Windermere Prep, Kirah added, "Windermere Prep has most definitely taught me the importance of balance. Juggling IB courses, extracurriculars, and athletics is not an easy task, and thus I have been encouraged to focus on time-management skills in order to see success in all areas. In addition, WPS has given me a second family and created an extremely supportive environment to grow up in. They have taught me how to have confidence and be a great leader, both of which I know will contribute to my future careers."

Kriah is the daughter of John and Alison Bolanovich. Kirah intends on majoring in International Business. 

Morgan Coughlin - Indoor Volleyball - Rollins College

Morgan, a letterwinner in both indoor and beach volleyball, set a school record this past season with 31 kills in a game against Montverde Academy in the team's home opener. Morgan was named an AAU All-Academic American. This season as a Laker, Morgan led the team with 316 kills and finished her career in third all-time with 533 kills. 

On choosing to attend Louisiana State University, Morgan said, "I chose to go to Rollins because I fell in love with the campus and the coach when I went to camp in 8th grade. Ever since that day I knew that was the place I wanted to be."

Of her experience at Windermere Prep, Morgan added, "Windermere Prep has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to seize real-life opportunities, ensuring that I am well-prepared for my future." 

Morgan is the daughter of Sean and Michele Coughlin. She also wanted to recognize her sisters Caitlin and Reghan. Morgan intends on majoring in Biology. 

Alicia Qian - Golf - Santa Clara University 

Alicia has been a staple of the Windermere Prep Girls' Golf Team. During her career as a Laker, Alicia has been a big reason WPS won the 2021 FHSAA Class 1A State Championship, Regional Championship, Citrus League Championship, and District Runner-Up. During her junior year, Alicia finished as the FHSAA Class 1A Individual State Runner-Up. This past season, Alicia was the individual winner of The Citrus League and District. 

On choosing to attend Santa Clara University, Alicia said, "Santa Clara University is a part of the Division 1 West Coast Conference, located in the heart of Silicon Valley in California with great practice facilities and opportunities."

Of her experience at Windermere Prep, Alicia added, "As a part of the WPS girls golf team, the team achievements emphasize the importance of teamwork. When you're on a team, team honor comes before individual honors. this experience has taught me to consider the whole team instead of focusing on myself, at the same time it brought me the team spirit."

Alicia intends on majoring in Finance.

Sophia Zheng - Golf - University of California Irvine 

Sophia has been a key member of the girls' golf team at Windermere Prep over the past three years. As a sophomore, Sophia filled in to help the Lakers win the FHSAA Class 1A State Championship. 

On choosing to attend UC Irvine, Sophia said, "I chose UCI because of its outstanding golf and academic programs. Irvine has the perfect weather for golf, and the area is known for its safety. The strong bond with the coach and the supportive team culture were key factors that I looked for. I've always believed that UCI is the perfect fit for me."

Of her experience at Windermere Prep, Sophia added, "the program at Windermere Prep has taught me valuable skills and prepared me effectively for being a student-athlete while emphasizing both sports and academics. It also has provided me with the best high school golf season; winning the state championship undoubtedly stands out as one of my best memories."

Sophia  intends on majoring in Business.