Pair of Clear Lake athletes sign with Division I teams

Sholly will play football at Ivy League’s Penn
Jared Sholly has become Clear Lake’s first, and one of only two players in the State this year, to sign on to play football in the Ivy League. Sholly signed a letter of intent with the University of Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Feb. 6.
Sholly said he had many options to consider after high school, but ultimately chose the one which would allow him to play football at a strong program and provide a quality education. The football and academic standout plans to study business. Penn’s business school is ranked number one in the country.
“First off, Jared is a fantastic person and that is the first thing we look for in recruiting,” said Penn Assistant Coach Jon McLaughlin, responsible for the school’s recruiting in Iowa. “He’s one of two in Iowa who will play Ivy League athletics next year--combining elite academics with Division I football ability. We are excited about his work ethic and toughness and feel it will raise the level of everyone in our program.
Sholly will play on Penn’s defensive line. Ivy League schools do not redshirt athletes, he noted.
Clear Lake Football Coach Fred Wieck said he is proud of Sholly and expects him to achieve on the field and off at Penn.
“Jared is an exceptional student-athlete,” said Wieck. “He is a very good pass rush guy who will come hard off the edge and rush the quarterback.”
Sholly is a two-time First Team Class 3A All-State player, who also earned First Team All-District and All-District Academic honors twice. The four-year A Honor Roll student was a leader in quarterback sacks for not only Clear Lake, but the state.
McGrath to play soccer at Missouri State
Jeslynne McGrath, a soccer standout for Clear Lake and statewide teams, has signed a letter of intent to play soccer for Missouri State in Springfield, Mo.
McGrath as been an MISL All-conference player each of her high school years. In addition, she has participated in the Ankeny Soccer Club as a member of the Ankeny Premier Maroon. She was also selected 2004-2007 as a player in the Olympic Development Program. A highlight of her ODP career included playing as a finalist at the 2006 Las Vegas Coaches Classic and scoring a goal to tie the score in the semi-final match.
It was largely through the Ankeny club and ODP play that McGrath garnered the attention of college coaches. She also attended a college showcase tournament. Missouri State’s interest, as well as positive comments from family members who attended the school, helped make her choice.
“I will hopefully play at midfield right away,” said McGrath, daughter of Steve and Tricia. “I’m looking forward to the competition.”