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Rapid City Student-Athletes Sign Letters of Intent on National Signing Day

11/26/2025, 2:10:26 PM

Overview of National Signing Day Events

National Signing Day marks a significant milestone for high school athletes as they commit to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Recently, several seniors from Rapid City Stevens and Rapid City Christian participated in signing ceremonies, officially announcing their college commitments.

Rapid City Stevens Athletes Commit

Five seniors from Rapid City Stevens High School signed letters of intent to pursue their athletic careers.

Soccer Commitments

  • Avery Dormann will play women's soccer at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Dormann, a midfielder, was named First Team All-State, contributing 12 goals and 11 assists in her senior season. She expressed excitement about the welcoming environment and proximity to home, stating, "I love the team. The girls were so amazing and the coach was really great."
  • Holly Benson is set to join Black Hills State University in Spearfish. The defender, who had six goals and 15 assists during her high school career, highlighted the welcoming atmosphere during her visit as a key factor in her decision.
  • Lily Schad will continue her soccer journey at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado. Schad, also a First Team All-State player, emphasized her connection with the team and the familial environment she experienced during her visit.

Softball Commitments

  • Josie Thompson plans to play softball at Dakota State University in Madison. As a utility player, she looks forward to being part of a growing program under a new head coach, noting the welcoming nature of the staff and team.
  • Everley Peterson signed with Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. Peterson, who has played multiple positions, felt an immediate connection during her visit, describing the environment as "very welcoming" and likening it to a second home.

Rapid City Christian Athletes Commit

In addition to Stevens, Rapid City Christian also celebrated its athletes' commitments.

Volleyball and Baseball Commitments

  • Maddie Altstiel will compete in volleyball at Black Hills State University. A four-year starter, Altstiel has impressive statistics, including 264 kills and 51 aces. She was drawn to the community and outreach efforts at Black Hills State, stating, "Seeing the community outreach and just the commitment that everyone has to BH was super cool."
  • Lars Kieffer plans to play baseball for Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. Kieffer, a standout player for Post 22, appreciated the facilities and the connection he felt with the coaches, remarking that it "felt like home."

Conclusion

The commitments made by these student-athletes reflect their dedication and the culmination of years of hard work. As they transition to collegiate athletics, their experiences and choices highlight the importance of community, environment, and personal connections in their decision-making processes.