Lincoln-Way West High School has announced that several of its football student-athletes have committed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. The school, located in New Lenox and part of Will County, serves grades 9 through 12 with an enrollment of 1,941 students during the 2019-2020 school year.
The students who have committed include Luke Gouty to Valparaiso University, Zach Hermanson and Jackson Mansker to the University of Indianapolis, Elijah James to Michigan Tech University, Reilly Kliros to Iowa Western College, Grant Tustin to Winona State University, and Noah Wendt also to the University of Indianapolis.
Noah Wendt will attend the University of Indianapolis to study Business. His most memorable moments include summer camps with teammates and long bus rides to games, while earning First Team All-Conference stands as his proudest achievement. He emphasizes consistency and maximum effort in all areas of life and thanks his coaches, parents, and teammates for their support.
Grant Tustin has committed to Winona State University, where he will major in Kinesiology. A Central win remains his most memorable moment, and being named Conference Offensive Player of the Year is his top accomplishment. His advice highlights the importance of hard work behind the scenes, and he expresses gratitude to God, his parents, and coaches.
Jackson Mansker will also attend the University of Indianapolis with an undecided major. The Downers Grove North game during his senior year stands out most to him, along with earning First Team All-Conference. He encourages perseverance and daily effort, thanking his parents, coaches, teammates, and trainers.
Elijah James will study Aerospace Engineering at Michigan Technological University. Returning to the field after injury against Bradley was his most meaningful moment, and he is proud to have earned Most Improved Offensive Player of the Year. He stresses giving full effort in every situation and thanks God, family, and supporters.
Reilly Kliros committed to Iowa Western College to study Exercise Science. His senior-year Downers Grove North game and First Team All-Conference recognition highlight his career. He advises trusting the process and thanks God, family, friends, and coaches.
Zach Hermanson will major in Criminal Justice at the University of Indianapolis. Being a team captain is his proudest achievement, and he values post-win team meals. He encourages maintaining a positive attitude and thanks God, family, and coaches.
Luke Gouty will pursue Engineering at Valparaiso University. Beating LWC his senior year was most memorable, and earning All-Conference honors stands out. He advises staying focused on long-term goals and thanks his parents, coaches, and teammates.
Together, these athletes represent dedication, perseverance, and gratitude as they move on to the next level.
