DERRY — Stellar athletes at Pinkerton Academy have been lining up to sign collegiate letters of intent.
Those students are on their way to college sports careers. Long lists of accomplishments in high school helped get them there.
Last week, senior field hockey player Jordyn Hamilton signed on to play at Boston College, making her part of the nationally ranked NCAA Division I school.
She will wear maroon and gold next fall and play for the BC Eagles.
Hamilton was flanked last week by her parents, friends and coaches as she signed her letter in the athletic conference room at Pinkerton.
"Boston College has been my dream school since I can remember," the Hampstead resident said in an earlier interview. "My heart was always set on Boston College. My grandparents and family can go to the games. It was just a gut feeling and it never went away."
Dean of Students Glenn Ahrens told Hamilton she should be very proud of her accomplishments — on and off the field.
"Not many kids get this opportunity, so, congratulations," he said. "I hope you enjoy it."
Hamilton has excelled during her high school career, playing as part of the USA U17 women's national field hockey team and piling up numerous other national honors throughout her hockey career. The All-American's ultimate goal is to make it to the Olympics one day.
"This has always been a dream of mine for so long," she said, "Finally, and now it's just a signature here."
Hamilton's parents Wayne and Julie accompanied their daughter at the signing ceremony.
Pinkerton Academy Athletic Director Tim Powers said he was proud of what Hamilton has accomplished.
"All your hard work has paid off," he said.
Other Pinkerton athletes recently signing to play sports at the college level include Canada Stewart, who will play field hockey for the St. Anselm Hawks.
Sean Smith also will head to St. Anselm after a strong career at Pinkerton, earning varsity letters in soccer and basketball.
Emmitt Smith, who played football and ran indoor and outdoor track for the Pinkerton Academy Astros, will study at Bentley University in Waltham, Mass., following graduation in the spring.
All are called "hard working, coachable athletes" by their coaches.
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