Three members of the West Hills College Coalinga basketball team have been given the opportunity to continue their college basketball careers at universities post-graduation and were acknowledged in a recent signing ceremony.
Stephon Gordon and Stephen Glassco signed with the University of Arkansas at Monticello while DeQuan Doyle signed with West Virginia State University.
“It is our goal for all of our student athletes to graduate and transfer to the four-year level,” said Mark Arce, WHCC athletic director. “We’re proud of them.”
All three students had excellent records during their time on the Falcons basketball team. Doyle and Gordon earned a spot on the Central Valley Conference’s 1st team while Glassco earned an honorable mention and was the All-Defensive Team Co-MVP.
“I’m looking forward to a new chapter in my life at UAM and furthering my education,” said Glassco. “I had an amazing experience here at West Hills and built lifelong relationships with the faculty and staff. I’m extremely thankful for all of the support from the local fans, students and faculty of West Hills College Coalinga. The years I have spent here will not be forgotten nor taken for granted.”
All three graduated with associate’s degrees at West Hills College Coalinga’s commencement ceremony on May 20.
Dr. Carole Goldsmith, president of West Hills College Coalinga, said the three are an example of what an important part of the college experience sports can be for students.
“These young men are a shining example of how sports provide additional educational opportunities for students, life-long lessons on the court and in the classroom, and proof that through hard work, drive and pushing yourself you can achieve goals you may never have thought you could achieve in the past,” she said. “These lessons, and many more, will be carried by all of our student athletes into all aspects of their personal and professional lives long after their time spent with West Hills. It’s a fitting tribute to their faculty/coaches as well.”