The ink on Coral Shores baseball standout Donovan Thiery’s letter of intent to play at Florida State next spring was barely dry when three more Hurricane seniors declared their intentions.
Multi-sport talent Jenna Mandozzi decided on furthering her athletic career at North Carolina’s Wesleyan University, where she will don a Battling Bishops soccer uniform. Mandozzi, a four-year starter for Coral Shores, joins older sister Brooke, who plays volleyball at Wesleyan.
Mandozzi called the school a perfect fit, noting the beauty of the campus, the team’s recent European tour and her sister’s attendance there as primary factors in her choice. She is a natural athlete who has so far excelled in each of the sports she has taken on, and that list is extensive. In addition to soccer, Mandozzi has played softball and has been a member of the cross country and track and field teams.
“Athleticism is woven into the DNA of every member of her family,” said past athletic director Rich Russell. “North Carolina Wesleyan University is gaining not only a remarkable athlete, but also an exceptional young woman who is a true role model in every sense of the word.”
Baseball standout Riley O’Berry chose Northern Oklahoma College to extend his time on the clay. O’Berry received a scholarship to play for the Mavericks next spring, and the staff at NOC is thrilled about its latest signee.
“We’re excited to bring Riley to our program. We’re excited to see him shine in his senior campaign and have the opportunity to work with him in Oklahoma,” said Jonathan Monk, head baseball coach for the Mavs. “His work ethic is unmatched and fits our mold for winners in our program.”
The hardworking lefty was instrumental in securing the Hurricanes’ district championship last spring and has also played basketball and soccer at Coral Shores. Athletic director Ed Holly, who also served as baseball coach during O’Berry’s time with the ’Canes, said it best: “When the game is on the line, Riley is the guy you want on the mound pitching for you.”
Lacrosse star Christian Gonzales selected St. Thomas University in Miami for his next chapter. A dual-sport athlete, Gonzales also shined on the soccer field, but ultimately chose to play lacrosse at the next level. In his time with the Hurricanes, Gonzales has racked up many honors, including a nod to the All-District team, and has elevated his game with club teams and hard work in the offseason. His exceptional play caught the eye of the Bobcats’ sports information director, Eli Sirota, who said, “Christian brings speed, vision, creativity and a strong scoring presence to the field.”
