Student-Athletes Committing to Collegiate Sports

June 13, 2025
 

The Cazenovia Central School District is bubbling with pride as another group of exceptional student-athletes prepares to take their talents to the collegiate level. Eight seniors have officially committed to play sports at colleges across the Northeast and beyond, a testament to their dedication, the unwavering support of their families, and the guidance of their coaches and teachers. These commitments highlight the strong tradition of academic and athletic excellence within the Cazenovia community. 

"The lessons learned through our high school sports are incredibly important to our students and our community," said Mike Brynes, athletic director. "It's inspiring to witness the hard work these athletes put in, and equally heartwarming to see the collective support from parents, teachers, and coaches that helps them reach such high levels of achievement." 

These eight individuals join a distinguished list of Cazenovia alums who have continued their athletic journeys in college. Meet Cazenovia's newest collegiate athletes: 

• Ben Bianco, a dynamic point guard, is headed to Clarkson University to play men's basketball and major in business. Ben's family shared insights into his unwavering commitment: "He has done volunteer work, sports youth camps, and private lessons – he eats, sleeps, and breathes basketball. He is so kind and driven, and he keeps up as a straight-A student." Maddie DeAngelis will bring her attacking prowess to the lacrosse field at Oneonta College, where she plans to major in biochemistry.

• Maddie DeAngelis will bring her attacking prowess to the lacrosse field at Oneonta College, where she plans to major in Biochemistry.

• Braden Carnahan will be showcasing his versatility in long jump, hurdles, and sprints for the track and field team at Case Western Reserve University, where he will major in math. Braden offers valuable advice to aspiring college athletes: "Reach out early to colleges; there are forms you can fill out, and get the advice you need to get where you want to be." 

• Tucker Ives will continue his lacrosse career as a goalie for Clarkson University, pursuing a degree in engineering management. Tucker’s parents beam with pride, with his dad noting, “Tucker has shown perseverance and dedication through the ups and downs as a goalie. We are all really proud of where that got him.” His mom added, “He is such a hard worker; even with a job, he kept up with his sport.” Even his two grandmothers warmly shared, “He’s a good kid; we like him!” 

• Charlie Prior is set to serve her country and play women's lacrosse for Army West Point, pursuing a degree in international politics. 

• Gabriel Sanchez, a formidable force on the wrestling mat, is set to join Alfred State to study forensic science. His coach, Tod Avery, said, "Gab is a rare talent. He has the confidence and agility for wrestling. He learned a great deal in his first year and grew into a state qualifier. The effort he has put in has truly shown." Gabriel himself acknowledges the demanding nature of his sport, advising, "Know that it's going to be challenging; always stay focused on your endurance and become dedicated to maintenance." 

• Wynslet Skidmore will play defense for the women's lacrosse team at St. Lawrence University, with plans to major in criminal law. Wynslet's mom enthusiastically shared, "She is a great fit for athletics and lacrosse. She has been awesome since she picked up a stick in the eighth grade, and she has never looked back. She is fierce, works hard with coaches, and helps with youth lacrosse groups through rain and snow; she has real dedication." 

• Izzy Stromer Galley will be a force in the midfield for the women's lacrosse team at Geneseo State, majoring in pre-vet/biology. Izzy extends her gratitude: "Thank you to my high school lacrosse coach, Ms. Caitlin Byrne, for helping me in my high school journey." 

These eight committed athletes join two additional Cazenovia stars who signed earlier in the school year, further extending the Lakers' presence in collegiate athletics: 

• Lexi Isbell, who plays defense, signed her commitment papers earlier this year, officially committing to join the women's lacrosse team at Saint Anselm College. Lexi shared her passion and dedication: "Whether it’s school or sports, I strive every day to be the best I can and push myself out of my comfort zone to try new things." 

• Skyelynn Stanford officially signed commitment papers to play women's soccer as a goalkeeper for Maryville University and will major in sports communications. She commented, "The hard work was worth it." 

The Cazenovia Central School District congratulates all these dedicated student-athletes and wishes them the very best as they embark on their exciting collegiate journeys. Their achievements are a source of immense pride for the entire Cazenovia community.