On Wednesday, the Wildcats held the final signing day of the year, where five athletes announced their collegiate plans, starting with Concordia University of Ann Arbor commit Easton Srebnik.

While Srebnik has only accumulated three years of football experience over his lifetime and one season on the varsity squad, his undeniable talent at the wide receiver position has earned him an opportunity to join the Cardinals next season.

“Easton (Srebnik) is exactly the type of player Concordia looks for,” Concordia slot wide receiver coach Devon Benn said. “I’ve watched his film thoroughly, and I’ve seen his academics, and I really believe that he’s going to be a huge part of this team and a better student than he already is when he joins our campus.”

Though Srebnik was limited to one varsity year due to a season-ending injury during his junior year, the achievements made this season were impossible to miss.

News Photo by Owen Kinzey Easton Srebnik poses with friends and family after signing to continue his athletic and academic careers at Concordia University of Ann Arbor at Alpena High School on Wednesday. Srebnik will be playing football at the university.

Racking up 37 receptions for 540 yards with two touchdowns, Srebnik easily earned Big North Conference second-team honors.

His work during the season, as well as the off-season, has enhanced his abilities ever since he began playing.

Developing a tough work ethic through his lifelong basketball career translated into football, where Srebnik constantly worked to improve his skills and athletic traits.

“Easton is probably the hardest working kid I’ve ever met,” Alpena coach Eric Mitchell said. “Whether we were in season or out, he always put the time and effort into his passion; clearly, it’s really paying off. He was a huge contributor to our team, and I can’t wait to see what he does at the next level.”

While athletics are incredibly meaningful, academics mean even more going forward.

News Photo by Owen Kinzey Easton Srebnik signs to continue his athletic and academic careers at Concordia University of Ann Arbor at Alpena High School on Wednesday. Srebnik will be playing football at the university.

Despite not knowing exactly what he wants to study and do as a career, Srebnik will begin undergraduate studies, hoping to spark an interest in a future career by taking some entry-level classes.

One of the most vital reasons Srebnik chose Concordia was this opportunity to study with an open mind alongside the coaching relationships offered by the Cardinals.

“From the very first time I visited, the head coach and coaching staff stood out among the rest of the places I had visited,” Srebnik said. “They’re super knowledgeable, so I believed this was the best choice for me in order to reach my full potential.”

Even though Srebnik dominated in his limited chances at the high school level, stepping onto a college field will be a totally different experience with plenty more obstacles.

It’s always a challenge to play first season as a freshman, but going into the next journey with a strong mindset, Srebnik is ready to take advantage of any playing time while contributing to the team in any way.

News Photo by Owen Kinzey Easton Srebnik poses with friends and family after signing to continue his athletic and academic careers at Concordia University of Ann Arbor at Alpena High School on Wednesday. Srebnik will be playing football at the university.

“(Concordia) has been winning a lot over the past few years, and I’m hoping to add whatever I can to continue that trend,” he said.

Finally, as Srebnik takes his talents elsewhere, reflecting on the timeless memories and countless people who helped him reach this point will precisely close his athletic high school career.

“Out of every memory I’ve made, I’d have to say the bonds made with teammates have been the most important aspect of my high school experience. Between the brotherhood and teamwork, it’s impossible to match the memories we’ve made,” he said. “As a closing statement, I’d like to thank God, my parents, and all the coaches I’ve had throughout my life. I’d also like to thank the coaches at Concordia for giving me the opportunity to play college football.”