Eagles Celebrate 11 Student-Athletes at Spring Signing Day Ceremony

11 MCC student athletes signing at the next level poses for the camera at signing day in the Graham Gymnasium.
11 MCC student athletes signing at the next level poses for the camera at signing day in the Graham Gymnasium.
May 1, 2026

MERIDIAN, Miss. — Meridian Community College Athletics celebrated the future of 11 student-athletes on Thursday, hosting a signing day ceremony inside the Graham Gymnasium.

Surrounded by teammates, coaches, family, friends, faculty, and staff, the Eagles were recognized for their next chapter as they prepare to continue their academic and athletic careers at four-year institutions.

Each student-athlete participated in a formal signing moment, posing for photos at a table displaying their future school before taking additional photos with teammates, coaches, and loved ones.

The following student-athletes were honored during the ceremony:

Women's Soccer

  • Aracely Villafranca — Millsaps College
  • Avery Dronet — United States Sports University
  • Lola Smith — LSU Shreveport
  • Deaireal Williams — Faulkner University

Women's Basketball

  • Nataysia Willis — University of West Alabama
  • Terica Smith — Undecided
  • Mia Washington — Undecided

Men's Golf

  • Jace Duckworth — High Point University
  • Ayers Mathis — Blue Mountain Christian University

Men's Soccer

  • Joseph Hernandez — Spring Hill College

Men's Basketball

  • Issace Grady — Belhaven University

The ceremony highlighted the hard work and dedication of these student-athletes during their time at MCC, both in competition and in the classroom.

MCC Athletics congratulates each signee and wishes them continued success at the next level. No matter where their journey takes them, they will always be part of the Eagle family.

To view the full photo gallery from the event, visit:
https://mcceagles.com/general/2025-26/photos/0005/index

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