SAFFORD — A strong group of Safford High School athletes signed to continue their athletic careers at the next level Tuesday night, but the moment carried more meaning than just where each athlete is headed next.
Athletic director Ryan Scherling said the goal was to bring athletes together for a shared experience, allowing them to celebrate alongside teammates and classmates rather than in separate moments.
“This was about letting them enjoy it together,” Scherling said.
That approach was on full display throughout the night, particularly when the entire Safford football team left spring practice to be in attendance in support of teammate James Curtis.
On the field, the Bulldogs’ girls soccer program led the way with a highly productive group moving on together. Chloe Peters signed with Hendrix College in Arkansas after finishing her career with 40 goals and 35 assists, establishing herself as one of the program’s top playmakers.
Trynity Dominguez, one of the area’s most dangerous scorers, signed with Pima Community College after a 29-goal season that placed her among the region’s leaders. Teammate Luz Mendoza will also join her at Pima after posting 17 goals and 26 assists, helping drive Safford’s attack throughout the season.
Tashoney Kniffin, who signed with Cochise College, added 17 goals and 13 assists, giving the Bulldogs a balanced offensive group that will now continue at the next level.
On the track, Matthew Madrid signed with Arizona Christian University following a senior season that highlighted his versatility. Madrid posted personal bests of 11.18 in the 100 meters and 22.04 in the 200, while also competing in the 300 hurdles and excelling in the triple jump with a mark of 42 feet, 4.5 inches. He recorded multiple first-place finishes across events during the spring season.
Curtis, who was supported by his entire team at the event, signed with the West Phantoms, a member of the Gateway Pioneer Athletic Conference.
Amaya Alvarado also signed, joining the cheer program at Eastern Arizona College.
The night reflected not just individual accomplishment, but the strength of Safford’s athletic programs and the relationships built along the way, something Scherling said was the driving force behind organizing the event as a shared celebration.
