Walnut Hills Athletics honored one of the most meaningful milestones in a student-athlete’s journey this week with its annual College Signing Day celebration. With a packed house and a community full of pride, the Eagles recognized six outstanding seniors who have earned the opportunity to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level.

The initial Wednesday ceremony celebrated five seniors whose accomplishments reflect tireless dedication, academic excellence, and leadership on and off the field. These athletes have embraced every challenge, balancing rigorous coursework, competitive athletic schedules, and active roles within the Walnut Hills community.

But the celebrations didn’t end there.

In true “ball is life” fashion, Walnut Hills had to call an audible due to game schedules and hosted a part two of Signing Day. There was no way the school was going to miss the chance to honor one of its star athletes, giving her the spotlight she deserves as she officially commits to the next chapter of her athletic journey.

Together, these six Eagles will represent Walnut Hills at the next level:

Rhys Canan – Wright State University, Baseball

A standout scholar-athlete with a 4.93 weighted GPA, Rhys earned 2nd Team All-Conference as a freshman, 1st Team All-Conference and Honorable Mention All-Ohio as a sophomore, and represented Team Ohio at the Prep Baseball Report Future Games.

Lauren Christy – Butler University, Lacrosse

Lauren’s leadership and intensity have powered her success, including 2nd Team All-Conference, All-Region, and All-City honors in 2024 and 1st Team All-Conference plus 2nd Team All-Region and All-City honors in 2025.

Evie Denen – Baldwin Wallace University, Softball

A four-year varsity starter, Evie has earned Honorable Mention All-ECC, Honorable Mention All-Cincinnati, two CPS All-Star selections, and the Dave Parker MVP Award in the CPS All-Star Game.

Quinn Schureck – University of Kentucky, Swimming

One of the most decorated athletes in program history, Quinn is a 5x All-American, 6x ECC Champion, 2x State Runner-Up, 3x School Record Holder, 2x Academic All-American, and 5x Junior Nationals Qualifier.

Philip (PJ) Varatta – Providence College, Swimming

PJ’s achievements span athletics and academics: OHSAA State Qualifier, All-ECC honoree, USA Swimming Futures Qualifier, AP Scholar with Distinction, Brandeis University Book Award recipient, and student leader in Model UN and The Chatterbox.

Part Two: A Celebration Worth the Audible
Jasia Ross – Austin Peay State University, Women’s Basketball

A dominant force on the court, Jasia is a 2x First Team ECC selection, First Team All-District honoree, Second Team All-Southwest selection, and All-Ohio Honorable Mention. She played a key role in leading Walnut Hills to the 2025 District Championship. Her competitiveness, leadership, and relentless work ethic set her apart — and Austin Peay State University is gaining a true impact player.

Each of these athletes embodies what it means to be a Walnut Hills Eagle — driven, disciplined, and committed to excellence in every arena.

Walnut Hills Athletics is incredibly proud of these seniors and can’t wait to watch them soar at the next level.

Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.