Klein Oak Celebrates 20 Student-Athletes on 2026 National Signing Day
Pride, emotion, and celebration filled the room at Klein Oak High School as 20 student-athletes officially signed their letters of intent during the school’s 2026 National Signing Day ceremony. The event marked the culmination of years of dedication, early mornings, long practices, and unwavering support from families and coaches, as students committed to continuing both their academic and athletic journeys at colleges and universities across the country.
The ceremony highlighted not only the talent of Klein Oak athletes, but also the strength of the broader Klein ISD athletics community. Many of the students earned significant scholarship opportunities, reinforcing the district’s long-standing reputation for developing well-rounded student-athletes prepared for the next level. For parents, coaches, teammates, and supporters in attendance, the moment was as meaningful as it was celebratory.
“It’s always amazing to see our student-athletes receiving opportunities to continue their playing careers at the collegiate level,” said Klein Oak Athletic Director Brandon Carpenter. “So much work goes into this day for everyone involved. It’s truly a great time to celebrate our kids and community!”
Among those recognized was student-athlete Josephine Clark, who signed her commitment to Illinois Wesleyan University for wrestling. Like many of her peers, Clark described the experience as both thrilling and emotional, reflecting on the journey that brought her to this milestone.
“Signing Day is exciting and overwhelming at the same time,” Clark said. “I’ve put so much time and hard work into this sport, and knowing it paid off feels really rewarding. I’m especially grateful to my coach, Coach Jones, who’s been there for me every step of the way, on and off the mat, and he’s the reason I’m standing here today. I also want to thank my mom, dad, and grandma for always supporting me.”
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National Signing Day ceremonies like this one serve as a powerful reminder of the role schools and communities play in shaping student success. At Klein Oak, the day was not just about scholarships or athletics, but about perseverance, mentorship, and the shared pride of watching students take their next step forward. As these athletes prepare to represent their new schools, they carry with them the support of the Klein Oak family that helped them get there.
Klein Oak 2026 National Signing Day Student-Athletes
- Zach Ammons — Bookhaven — Baseball
- Aaliyah Arias — Cisco College — Soccer
- Hank Bills — Angelina College — Baseball
- Charlotte Butts — LaSalle University — Rowing
- Harrison Carter — Northwestern Louisiana State — Football
- Josephine Clark — Illinois Wesleyan University — Wrestling
- Jonny Craven — Northwestern Louisiana State — Football
- Sky Gonzalez — Kilgore College — Softball
- Raeley Igo — Memphis — Dance
- Rylan Kelly — Sam Houston State University — Basketball
- Audrina Kidd — Western Oklahoma State College — Softball
- Tori Leggiero — Wingate — Volleyball
- Madison Mize — University of Mary Hardin-Baylor — Softball
- Treyton Payne — McPherson College — Football
- Owen Riegle — William Jewell College — Football
- CJ Smith — Sam Houston State University — Baseball
- Will Stewart — Southwestern College — Football
- Jaden Strickland — Ottawa University — Baseball
- Taylor Toth — George Mason University — Swimming & Diving
- Thomas Wilson — Lees-McRae College — Tennis
As these 20 student-athletes move forward, Klein Oak High School and Klein ISD celebrate not only where they are headed, but everything they have already achieved. The Klein community will be cheering them on every step of the way.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.