Oyster Bay Student-Athletes Make College Commitments

OYSTER BAY, NY — It was a big day for Oyster Bay High School's Kayla Cronin and Taylor Hall.

At a ceremony on Thursday, the bright-eyed student-athletes made their college commitments official — while family, friends, and coaches looked on with pride.

Cronin committed to SUNY Morrisville, where she will join the equestrian team. She will be following her passion for working with horses and going into equine rehabilitation, according to school officials.

Although Oyster Bay High School doesn't offer an equestrian team, Cronin has been riding horses since she was a child. Some of her achievements include placing third overall in her first show series ever, earning 43 ribbons in competitions, and working with former Olympians.

Since she doesn't have a high school coach, Cronin's American Sign Language teacher shared a few words about the star student.

"She has the ambition and personal initiative, and I truly believe that she can achieve any goal that she sets for herself," Nicolle Sisia said. "She will be a remarkable addition to SUNY Morrisville."

Hall committed to Sacred Heart University, where she will join the Pioneers' fencing team. A valuable member of her high school's fencing team, Hall is a four-year varsity starter and a two-year varsity captain. As a junior, she received an All-County honorable mention. And as a senior, she made All-County second team, where she finished fifth in the county.

Hall's fencing coach, John Bruckner, shared more about her fencing achievements and wished her luck as she furthers her athletic career on a collegiate level.

"It has indeed been a pleasure to know Taylor these past four years and to see her grow as a student, an athlete, and a leader," he said. "I believe she will do well in college and beyond."