TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – National Signing Day saw many local athletes sign up to play at the next level.
13 Sports went to Manhattan and 6A state champions Keenan Schartz and Dre Delort, along with the signing days of Topeka West’s Malachi Berg.
Schartz will go to Washburn following in his parents’ footsteps, Delort has signed with Kansas State and Berg will go to Hutchinson Community College.
Both Schartz and Delort are coming off a perfect season and that 6A state title.
Schartz threw for 1501 yards, 11 touchdowns and had 20 touchdowns on the floor.
Delort had 34 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception and two fumble recoveries.
They say their choices were easy.
“Great coaches, they stayed in touch with me all season and I could tell they wanted me there and I can find a home there,” Schartz said.
“I’m really excited. I’ve always loved K-State. I love going to games and I live just down the road, so it’s really exciting to get there and go to play” said Delort.
Berg finished with 1,413 yards and five touchdowns, 845 yards on the ground and nine touchdowns along with one receiving touchdown.
He also amassed six tackles, three tackles for a loss, a sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
Hutchinson is known to be a powerhouse and Berg wanted to be part of that tradition.
“It wasn’t like any other JUCO in the nation,” said Berg. “I’m a winning program, so it’s always easier. After getting involved and receiving the news that my best friends Tyrell (Reed) Lawrence High School and former Highland Park RB and Tre (Richardson, Highland Park WR/RB), it made it a little easier just knowing that I I’m getting into that wit, my brothers, and it was a decision I really felt that will prepare me for the journey in my life that I’m ready to take.
A few others who are joining Berg in Hutchinson, Kansas:
