The separate trails they’ve traveled through their athletic careers so far have included both similarities –– ups and downs, long days, longer nights, and lots of repetitions –– and experiences unique to each’s journey.
After all of it, the paths managed to converge for one moment Wednesday afternoon in the Harker Heights auditorium where seniors Arianna Jennings and Kaylee Humble became collegiate signees, a feat celebrated with close friends, teammates, coaches, teachers and a whole lot of family.
“It just feels so special. I’ve been working for this my whole life, and I’m just ready for the next level,” said Humble, a standout soccer player for the Lady Knights who signed with East Texas A&M University in Commerce.
Equally thrilled to close out a long recruiting process, Jennings basked in finalizing her commitment play basketball at Southland Conference member McNeese State University in Louisiana.
“It’s definitely a blessing, and I am very thankful for everything that I am going through right now,” Jennings said.
With the addition of Humble and Jennings, KISD had eight student-athletes cement their next stops during the first national signing period of the 2024-2025 cycle.
Wednesday’s ceremony at Harker Heights featured Lady Knights head coach Shirretha Nelson speaking highly of Jennings’ versatility on the court as a 6-foot guard who can shoot it from anywhere on the court and isn’t afraid to battle inside for a rebound.
Speaking of multi-faceted, Humble, a four-year starter, was the District 12-6A’s utility player of the year at the end of the 2024 season, and girls soccer head coach Aaron Jimenez described Humble’s leadership qualities and innate ability to elevate those around her to another level.
Mark Humble, Kaylee’s dad and the Knights' football head coach and athletic coordinator, then shared a few stories about watching his daughter grow through the sport, tying together the overarching importance of family.
“They are my number one supporters in everything,” Kaylee Humble said. “My mom and dad have been nothing but help in getting me recruited and have always been there for me no matter what.”
Added Jennings, “My mom and dad have been pushing me since the sixth grade. They have taken me places, some far away, and helped me get to where I need to be.”
Of course, after all the speeches and such, there was plenty of time to take pictures, which kept Humble and Jennings quite busy. Though, not nearly as busy as they’ve been chasing down their goal of playing in college.
The journey continues.
A few more photos from signing day can be viewed here.
