Windermere Preparatory School proudly celebrated seven outstanding student-athletes who officially announced their college commitments on National Signing Day, Wednesday, November 12. Surrounded by family, coaches, teachers, friends, and peers, each senior signed to continue their athletic journey at the collegiate level, an achievement that reflects years of hard work, dedication, and Laker pride.
“These seven student-athletes embody what it means to be a Laker,” said Patrick Hollern, Director of Athletics. “Each of them has balanced academics, leadership, and athletic achievement with integrity and passion. They've represented Windermere Prep with class and consistency, and we're so proud to see them continue their journeys at the next level. Their hard work, commitment, and character have left a lasting impact on our program.”
Below, we highlight each of our remarkable signees and the journeys that led them to this milestone.
A three-time High School All-American and three-time Scholastic All-American, Addison is ranked No. 9 in Florida and among the top 100 swimmers nationally in the Class of 2026. She will continue her academic and athletic career at Duke University.
On choosing Duke University, Addison said, “I chose Duke University because it truly embodies a work hard, play hard culture. The team atmosphere, the coaching, and the academic opportunities all felt like the perfect balance of challenge and support.”
Of her WPS experience, she shared, “Windermere Prep has taught me how to balance a demanding academic schedule with high-level training. The support from my teachers and coaches helped me develop discipline, time management, and resilience, skills that will be important at the Division I level.”
Addison plans to major in Psychology with certificates in Innovation & Entrepreneurship and Markets and Management. She thanked her family along with her coaches and teammates for their encouragement throughout her journey.
A Laker since fourth grade, Brandon leaves behind one of the most decorated basketball careers in WPS history. He ranks second all-time in scoring and holds multiple program records in points, 3-pointers, and free throws.
On choosing Florida State University, Brandon said, “I chose Florida State University because Coach Loucks and the staff made it feel like family from the start. Their energy and vision for the program matched exactly what I wanted in a school and team.”
Looking back on his WPS journey, he added, “Attending Windermere Preparatory School since fourth grade has taught me how to balance academics, athletics, and leadership.
Being part of the WPS community helped me grow both as a student and as a person.”
Brandon will major in Business at FSU and thanks his parents for their unwavering support.
A member of the Peruvian National Golf Team since 2021, Ariana has excelled internationally, including winning gold at the 2025 Junior Pan-American Games and finishing as individual runner-up. She also captured the 2025 Torneo WAGR Scalpers title and has balanced elite competition with academic excellence.
On choosing Purdue University, Ariana said, “I chose Purdue because it offers the perfect balance of elite academics and athletics. The university's strong tradition of excellence, combined with incredible coaching and facilities, creates the ideal environment for me to grow as both a golf player and a student. From my first visit, I felt the genuine support and family atmosphere that makes Purdue so special. I'm proud to call myself a Boilermaker and can't wait to represent Purdue on and off the course.”
Of her time at WPS, she shared, “Windermere Prep has prepared me for Purdue by teaching me how to balance a challenging academic schedule with golf. Taking hard classes helped me develop strong time management and study skills. Working with my golf team taught me the value of collaboration, focus, and consistency which are skills I'll carry with me into college.”
Ariana plans to major in Engineering and thanked her parents, sisters, and coaches for their guidance and support.
A two-year letterwinner, Isabella led the Lakers in kills for two consecutive seasons and will continue her volleyball career at Florida Atlantic University while majoring in Biology.
On choosing Florida Atlantic University, Isabella said, “The amazing coaches at FAU ultimately influenced my decision. Their passion for coaching and the trust they had for me as a player made me want to be a part of their program.”
Reflecting on her time at WPS, she added, “WPS has helped me overcome academic and athletic challenges that pushed me to become the best version of myself. The skills I've developed here will guide me toward success in the future.”
She expressed gratitude to her family for their constant encouragement and belief in her.
A gymnast for 15 years, Hailey will transition her talents to acro and tumbling at Saint Leo University, where she will pursue a pre-med track. She was drawn to Saint Leo for its intimate learning environment and strong sense of community.
On choosing Saint Leo University, Hailey said, “Honestly, I chose Saint Leo University because I really like how small it is. I like the idea of actually knowing my professors and classmates. It just seems like a place where I can really focus, get involved, and feel part of a close community instead of just another face in a big university.”
On her WPS experience, she shared, “WPS has really helped me get ready for the future because I've learned how to stay organized and manage my time better. The teachers really care and push us to do our best, and I've also learned how to work with other people on projects and activities. I feel like all of that will really help me when I go to college and start doing things on my own.”
Hailey thanked her family for their endless support, as well as her teachers and coaches at Windermere Prep for helping her build confidence and independence.
Santiago will continue his golf career at Barry University, where he plans to major in Finance. He chose Barry for its competitive golf environment and welcoming community.
On choosing Barry University, Santiago said, “Barry University stood out because of its close-knit community and the opportunity to grow in a competitive golf environment. I knew right away that it was the perfect place for me to continue developing as a student-athlete.”
Reflecting on WPS, he added, “My experience at WPS has taught me how to balance academics and athletics while exploring my interests. The supportive environment helped me figure out what I want to study in college and how to approach challenges with confidence.”
He expressed appreciation to his parents for their support throughout his journey.
A four-year varsity player and All-Metro East Pitcher, Vanessa played a key role in leading the Lakers to the SSAA Tournament Championship. She will continue her softball career at Lander University while majoring in Nursing.
On choosing Lander University, Vanessa said, “What influenced my decision to choose Lander University was their academic success and how good their softball team is. Also, their nursing program is continuously striving to get better.”
On her WPS experience, she shared, “WPS has taught me how to grow. I transferred my junior year, and it was hard to make friends and feel like I belonged at the school. Throughout my junior and senior years, I found friends who helped me feel like I was loved and supported throughout my journey in life and understood me. WPS has given me a profound sense of value and helped me grow into the person I am.”
Vanessa thanked her family including her parents, brother, and grandfather for their constant love and support.
Windermere Preparatory School congratulates Hailey, Isabella, Addison, Brandon, Ariana, Santiago, and Vanessa on this exceptional milestone. Their achievements reflect not only their individual perseverance but also the strength of the Laker community—one that champions growth, resilience, and excellence both in and out of competition.
We can’t wait to watch these Lakers shine at the next level. Well done, Class of 2026!
Interested in learning more about Windermere Prep?
Get in touch with one of our Admissions Officers today.
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