WINDERMERE, FL - On Wednesday, April 15, Windermere Prep proudly recognized six senior student-athletes who have committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. The signing ceremony celebrated their dedication, perseverance, and the lasting impact they have made on the Lakers community.

"This is one of the most special moments we have in our athletic department," said Director of Athletics Patrick Hollern. "Each of these student-athletes has embraced what it means to represent Windermere Prep. Their commitment to growth, both in competition and in the classroom, reflects the values of our program. We are incredibly proud of them and excited to see what they accomplish at the next level."

Eduardo Arcila – Football – Bellarmine University
A three-year starter, Arcila demonstrated resilience throughout his career, overcoming a significant injury during his junior season. He played a key role on both the offensive and defensive lines, bringing versatility and toughness to the program. He earned Florida Athletic Coaches Association Honorable Mention recognition.

On being a Laker, Arcila shared, "My experience at WPS has been extremely positive. I'm especially grateful for Coach Ham's support—he was outstanding throughout the entire process and played a big role in helping me grow both on and off the field."

On choosing Bellarmine, Arcila added, "I chose Bellarmine because it presented the best overall opportunity for me, both academically and athletically. I really connected with the campus and felt comfortable with the coaching staff, which made it clear it was the right place for me to continue my development."

Peyton Hollern – Football – Sewanee: The University of the South
Hollern capped off an outstanding senior season by tying a school record with 259 rushing yards in a victory over Bronson and becoming just the fourth player in program history to rush for 1,000 yards in a season. He earned Florida Athletic Coaches Association First Team honors.

He leaves his mark across the record book, finishing fourth all-time in career rushing yards (1,218) and second in single-season rushing yards (1,182). He also ranks third all-time in rushing attempts (148), rushing touchdowns (16), and total yards from scrimmage (1,397), while tying for third in total touchdowns scored in a season (17).

On being a Laker, Hollern shared, "My time at WPS has helped me grow into a stronger competitor, especially in high-pressure moments. It's taught me how to stay composed, lead with confidence, and make smart decisions when my team needs it most. Those experiences have prepared me to handle challenges and perform at a high level moving forward."

On choosing Sewanee, Hollern added, "The biggest influence on my decision was the coaching staff and the overall atmosphere. I felt a strong connection with the coaches and appreciated how invested they were in my development. Sewanee offers a high-level program and a supportive community that felt like the right fit for me."
 

Gabriel Greer – Football – Millikin University
Greer made an immediate impact in his lone season with the Lakers, stepping in as a starting defensive back. He finished third on the team with 55 total tackles and led the team with two interceptions, earning Florida Athletic Coaches Association Second Team honors.

On being a Laker, Greer shared, "Coming to Windermere Prep my senior year without knowing anyone was a challenge, but my teammates immediately welcomed me and pushed me to improve every day. I'm grateful to Coach Head, BDawk, Coach Ham, and Coach Clarke for investing in my development, and to my counselors and teachers for their support and guidance. My experience at WPS has helped me grow both as a player and as a person, and has prepared me for the next level."

On choosing Millikin, Greer added, "The opportunity to compete at a high level while receiving a strong education played a major role in my decision. The coaching staff made me feel valued and gave me confidence in my ability to grow both on and off the field. I also felt that the environment would help me stay focused, limit distractions, and fully commit to my goals."
 

Connor Corris – Basketball – Young Harris College
In his lone season with the Lakers, Corris emerged as a dominant and versatile presence. He finished second on the team with 322 points, while leading the team in rebounds (240) and blocked shots (50). He also ranked second in assists (88). His 240 rebounds rank fifth all-time in a single season.

On being a Laker, Corris shared, "WPS has prepared me both athletically and academically for the next level in a short amount of time. The competitive environment, combined with the expectations in the classroom, has helped me grow quickly, develop discipline, and build the habits I'll need to be successful in college and beyond."

On choosing Young Harris, Corris added, "The plan the coaching staff has for my development, along with the strong academic and athletic fit, played a big role in my decision. I felt confident in their vision for how I can grow as a player, and I knew the school would challenge me in the classroom while also giving me the opportunity to compete at a high level."

Alayiah Johnson – Basketball – Hillsborough College
A three-year starter, Johnson leaves as the program's all-time leading scorer with 871 career points. She also ranks third in career field goals (275), second in career free throws (176), and third in assists (203), while setting the school record with 254 career steals.

On being a Laker, Johnson shared, "At WPS, the level of competition in basketball and the rigor of the classroom have prepared me both athletically and academically for the next level. The experience helped me develop discipline, time management, and a strong work ethic."

On choosing Hillsborough, Johnson added, "The coaches and players made me feel genuinely welcomed from the moment I stepped on campus, which meant a lot to me. That connection, combined with an environment that felt like the perfect fit both athletically and academically, made it clear that it was the right place for me."