Five NSCD Seniors Commit To Playing College Sports

WINNETKA, IL — Five North Shore Country Day high school seniors who have signed up for college sports were recognized Tuesday with a signing ceremony.

“This is a huge accomplishment and you should be proud of your hard work and dedication,” Patrick McHugh, athletic director of the Winnetka private school, told the students as he opened the ceremony.

“Today you’re not just signing a letter of intent, you’re also signing up for an incredible opportunity to grow, learn and compete at the collegiate level," McHugh said.

"Embrace this new challenge with enthusiasm and never forget where you came from," he added. "Work hard, stay humble and enjoy the journey.”

Three of the five seniors at the ceremony are set to play soccer at the collegiate level, while two are due to play basketball.

Bethany Bulwa, of Glenview, will play basketball at Oberlin College in Ohio. Bulwa made headlines this season when she made two buzzer-beaters in just 13 days, including a 44-foot shot with her left hand and a 72-foot shot with her right hand. She also led the Independent School League in blocked shots.

Benji Leonetti, of Winnetka, will play soccer at Chapman University in Orange, California. Leonetti, a dual French-American citizen, began playing in Southern California before coming to the Chicago area. He is a versatile attacking midfielder who tallied 10 assists in his senior year.

Tae Won Lillig, of Chicago, will play soccer at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania after starting on the NSCD varsity team for all four years of his high school career. The left-footed defender scored 12 goals in his senior year, helping lead the team to a 20-2-2 record.

Walter Luglio, of Wilmette, will play soccer at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York. Luglio appeared to be on the way to becoming the player of the year in the Independent School League before an injury ended his season, school official said. He was nonetheless acknowledged as an honorable mention All-Conference player.

Margarite Richardson, of Deerfield, will play basketball at Beloit College in Wisconsin. She made a significant impact on the girls basketball program during her one season at North Shore Country Day, setting a school record by sinking eight three-pointers in a game.