West Orange HS Makes History: All-Female Athletes For Signing Day

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Public School District. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

A series of exciting firsts for West Orange High School highlighted Fall National Signing Day, held Nov. 13 in the Library Media Center.

Athletic Director Stephan Zichella excitedly noted that this was the first time the high school was able to organize several signings on the first National Signing Day of the year, and that it was an all-female group of nine athletes representing soccer, lacrosse, and basketball.

“You don’t realize the impact you have on our younger kids,” noted West Orange High School Principal Oscar Guerrero.

“You are a testament to your parents, to your coaches, working long hours to prepare yourselves to become your best, not just athletically but academically.”

In the first series of signings, Girls Soccer midfielder Lauren Villasin signed with University of Albany (D1). Villasin plans to study Nursing.

Girls Soccer Head Coach Sean Devore said of Lauren, “You have done a lot for the girls in this town. Being selected to the Philippine Women’s National Football Team (Senior Team) for the Pink Ladies Week in Antalya, Turkey last year, and named as a top player by NJ.com, inspires them."

First debuting in 2019, Girls Lacrosse at West Orange High School has exploded onto the scene and already enjoyed two division championships.

Girls Lacrosse Head Coach David Perez explained, “Today we have more girls signing than any other high school in Essex County.”

Six Girls Lacrosse Players signed:

Two Girls Basketball athletes held signings as well:

“It takes a village,” noted Girls Basketball Head Coach Caniece Williams,” who became emotional as she spoke about the girls’ worth ethic and growth, not only as athletes, but people. She went on to thank the coaches, staff, teachers, and team members.

“Young ladies in leadership are powerful,” concluded Superintendent Hayden Moore, “and it is your job as Mountaineers to lead others up the mountain.”

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