College signings
Name: Mason Eckenrode
Hometown: Flinton
Sport: Soccer
Position: Forward/ center mid
College Choice: Mount Aloysius
Other colleges considered: Juniata, UPJ
Why I picked Mount Aloysius?: Because of its PTA program and the recent success and what the Mounts Soccer team stands for.
Greatest high school achievement: Maintaining honor roll while being involved in lots of extracurricular activities and working.
Coach Adam Strasser’s quote: “Mason was very team-oriented, dedicated and a hard-working player over his high school career. He always had a deep passion for the game and the desire to work to be great. He always had a deep passion for the game, and the desire to work to be great. Mason is bringing a very high soccer IQ, terrific all-around soccer skills, and a hardworking attitude to Mount Aloysius. He will be a great teammate and team player. I am very proud of him and cannot wait to support him in his collegiate playing.”
How I go my start playing?: “I started playing when I was 3 for my local AYSO U5 team.”
Favorite college growing up: Villanova
Other interests: Basketball, bass fishing, and building legos in my free time.
What getting to play at college means to me?: “I’m very grateful as I get to continue playing the game I love and to have a chance to compete at another level.”
College major: Physical therapy assistant
Parents: Holly and Tom Eckenrode
Name: Gavin Harrold
High school: Penn Cambria
Hometown: Ashville
Sport: Football
Position: Wide receiver
College choice: IUP
Other colleges considered: Other PSAC schools and some D-I opportunities.
Why I picked IUP: “The visit I had at IUP was like no other. The coaching staff was amazing and it just felt like the right fit for me.”
Greatest high school achievement: “Winning the LHAC, districts and making it to the final four in states.”
Coach Nick Felus’ quote: “Gavin has earned every bit of this. Playing college football at a high level has always been a goal of his. We are so proud of him and his accomplishments. There is no one more deserving. Through his hard work in the weight room , dedication to developing his skills in the off-season, and his commitment to the process, he has put himself in position for success. He had a record breaking career and led a team on a historic run this season. He will go down as one of the best to ever play in the blue and black. IUP is an excellent choice for him. They are getting an extremely hard worker, a relentless competitor, but most importantly they are getting a great person. He will do very well there and we are excited to see what the future holds for him.”
How I got my start playing football: “Playing tackle football in the snow with my dad and brother, and I also started playing flag football when I was 4.”
Favorite college growing up: Notre Dame
Other interests: Hanging out with friends, playing cards, fishing and hunting.
What getting to play in college means to me: “Although I am not done working, and will continue working, I want to make an impact at IUP as soon as I can.”
Probable college major: Mathematics/Actuarial Science
Parents: Dane and Christy Harrold
Name:Garrett Jasper
High school: Cambria Heights
Hometown: Hastings
Sport: Football
Position: Defensive Line
College choice: Pennwest Clarion
Other colleges considered: N/A
Why I picked Clarion University: “It felt like home whenever I visited, I loved the coaches and everything the program had to offer”
Greatest high school achievement: “Winning back to back D6 championships and being named all-state as a dlineman twice”
Coach Jarrod Lewis’ quote: “.”
How I got my start playing football: “I began playing football in first grade and I was upset because I wasn’t able to tackle anyone until about third grade.”
Favorite college growing up: Penn State
Other interests: Lifting, Fishing, Hunting
What getting to play in college means to me: “It means everything to me, I am truly blessed to be playing at the next level.”
Probable college major:Exercise science then get a doctorate in PT
Parents:Dan and Danita Jasper