Senior Mackenzie Ramsey signed a letter of intent Thursday, May 16, to join the track and field team at Saginaw Valley State University.

Ramey planned to attend SVSU before the track and field team came calling, so joining the Cardinals‘ NCAA Division 2 track and field team excites her.

“My decision to go to Saginaw Valley was decided well before I decided to play sports there,” Ramey said, “so signing was just the icing on the cake.”

Ramey said she picked SVSU for more than just the opportunities it will bring, but also its location.

“This college stood out to me not only because of the beautiful campus, but (because) there was so many kind people, and I loved the location,” Ramey said. “It was far enough away but also close enough to home.”

Ramey is an excellent thrower in the shot put, competing for Kearsley for the past three seasons. She set her personal record in the event last season with a throw of 40 feet, 7 inches. Ramey earned All-State last year, finishing third in the state.

Though she is moving on to bigger and better opportunities, she will remember her team at KHS.

“I (will) most definitely miss my track family,” Ramey said. “Although it was small, it was unlike many.”

Coach Mike Simms was present during her signing. Ramey credits Simms as being a great influence on her life — both in athletics and values.

“My coach was amazing and will hold a special place in my heart,” Ramey said. “Not only did Mr. Simms just coach, he taught us so many life lessons and was there for so many of us. He never said no. He was always willing to help not only with the sport, but in every way.”

Her mother, stepfather, boyfriend, teammates, and friends  also supported her at the signing.

Though Ramsey will no longer be a Hornet, she is ready to soar into her future as a Cardinal.

“I am very excited to start this new chapter,” Ramey said. “I will most definitely miss high school, but I am ready to test my limits and accomplish many more things.”