223334.png)
DeSoto Independent School District’s DeSoto High School hosted its annual National Signing Day event on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Chris Dyer Gymnasium, celebrating the athletic achievements of several student-athletes committing to collegiate programs. Together, these athletes have earned over $1 million in scholarships, marking a significant accomplishment for both the students and the DeSoto community.
Inside the gymnasium a crowd of students, staff, community members, and family gathered as eight athletes signed their National Letters of Intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.
The student-athletes recognized include:
• Taryn Bailey, Girls' Track, University of Nevada – Las Vegas (UNLV)
• Skyla Jones, Softball, Coffeyville Community College (Kansas)
• Marshall Kirven, Football, Northeastern State University (Oklahoma)
• Canden Mathis, Football, University of Texas at Permian Basin
• Cameren Paul, Basketball, Mississippi State University
• Andre Pentecost Jr., Track, Wichita State University
• Kaleb Thompkins, Baseball, Prairie View A&M University
• Whitney Robinson, Girls' Track, University of Nebraska
The event highlighted the dedication, perseverance, and talent of the athletes, as well as the vital role their families, coaches, and the DeSoto community played in their success.
“I’m very proud of myself,” said Skyla Jones, who will be taking her softball talents to Coffeyville Community College. “This is what I’ve been working for, and I’m so happy that the school came together to celebrate us signing today.”
DeSoto football continues its storied tradition of sending talented student-athletes to the collegiate level. Canden Mathis will be attending the University of Texas at Permian Basin, and Marshall Kirven will be playing at Northeastern State University in Oklahoma.
“It’s a proud moment, and I’m really emotional,” said Terrance Taylor, uncle of Kirven. “I’m trying to hold it together. He’s come a long way, and we’re all he has. We’re his support system. I’m glad that everyone came out and showed support because he really needs it—he’s a good kid.”
A particularly memorable moment occurred when DeSoto High School Head Football Coach and Athletic Director Claude Mathis addressed his son, Canden Mathis, who has played under his father throughout his high school career.
“It’s an awesome moment,” said Mathis. “I’ve had a chance to coach all of my sons, and he’s the last one. Let me tell you, I’ve enjoyed every moment with him, especially winning championships with him and his brothers.”
Mathis also expressed his gratitude to the DeSoto ISD community: “The district has been awesome to my family. I’ve been here for over 13 years, and they’ve always supported me and treated my family with first-class care.”
The National Signing Day ceremony is part of DeSoto High School's ongoing efforts to recognize the achievements of its student-athletes and foster a sense of pride within the community. With over $1 million in scholarships earned, this event reflects the district’s commitment to supporting the academic and athletic success of its students.