Four WPHS seniors celebrated for acceptance in Division 1 programs

Pride, emotion and years of hard work were on full display Monday afternoon at White Plains High School, where four outstanding senior athletes celebrated their acceptance to NCAA Division I colleges next year.

Standout lacrosse players Caitlyn Hyatt and Brooke Thomas, soccer star Jordan Ford and accomplished diver Ryleigh Baumann were joined by their families and friends at the Media Center for the festive signing ceremony.

Student-athletes who earn a spot on a DI roster -- the highest levels of collegiate sports --balance elite-level training and competition with rigorous academic expectations. Only a small percentage of high school athletes achieve it.

Athletic Director Matt Cameron reminded the crowd just how significant the milestone is.

“This stuff does not happen by accident,” he said. “There is a huge amount of time, commitment and support from parents — driving all over the place to camps and clinics — and a commitment from your child. We have four girls here today signing to great academic schools, and we are so proud of you.”

Caitlyn Hyatt

Caitlyn will attend the University of Massachusetts Lowell, continuing a high school career marked by leadership, 100+ career points and recognition as a Lohud Girls Lacrosse Player of the Week.

A four-year varsity athlete who began competing on JV as an eighth-grader, she developed into the team’s emotional and competitive anchor.

Among her many accomplishments: 2024 All League, 2025 All League, 2025 All Section; 2025 The Journal News/Lohud's Westchester/Putnam girls lacrosse all-star team Honorable Mention; 2025 NYSSWA Girls Lacrosse All-State Team Honorable Mention; Junior and Senior Captain; Junior Season Leading Team in Goals/Points.

Girls lacrosse and field hockey head coach Kasey Rubenstein recalled watching her growth.

“Caitlyn’s determination hasn’t just been physical—it’s been a transformation in confidence and leadership. This development earned her the respect of her teammates and coaches,” she said.

“She's become the unquestioned leader who sets the standard. Her impact on the girls varsity program will be remembered for a long time,” Ms. Rubenstein added.

Choked up with emotion, Caitlyn kept her message simple: “Thank you for all the support.”

Brooke Thomas

Brooke, who has committed to Binghamton University, was recognized for her leadership and versatility. A varsity starter since her freshman year, she earned All-League Honorable Mention and shone as both a lacrosse defender and varsity field hockey player.

Ms. Rubenstein highlighted Brooke’s steady rise, saying “she showed the ability to adapt and excel in multiple roles as she transitioned into a consistent threat in our offense. She was able to move into a different position with ease as a testament to her athleticism and tireless work ethic.

“Beyond her physical capabilities, Brooke was growing as an incredible leader. She is a voice of encouragement and strength for her teammates, always pushing up while holding herself accountable at the highest standard,” she said.

Brooke’s “versatility, determination and leadership are exactly the qualities that define a Division I athlete. We can't wait to watch everything you accomplish, both on and off the field next year,” Ms. Rubenstein added.

In addition to athletics, Brooke is an honors/AP student and active in the Debate Club, Midnight Run and Young Voters.

She thanked the athletic staff who helped her realize her dreams.

“There are so many people behind the scenes who help motivate us. Thank you – and especially Coach Kasey –for creating a fun environment where we all support each other,” she said.

Jordan Ford

Jordan, a center midfielder and four-year member of the varsity soccer team, will attend Binghamton University.

A calm, confident leader on the field, she served as team captain her junior and senior seasons and earned multiple All-Section and All-League honors. Jordan also led White Plains to a league championship in 2023.

She also excelled academically as an AP Scholar with Honors and a National Commended Scholar – and plans to major in mechanical engineering and minor in physics at Binghamton.

Assistant varsity coach Claire Yergeau praised her steadying presence.

“Jordan brings a confidence and calmness to the field that helps everyone play their best. She has been a major part of this program for years,” she said.

Jordan said the opportunity to continue the sport she has loved since age 4 is deeply meaningful.

“And it means a lot that I can continue that into my college career,” she said before the ceremony. “It’s great at Binghamton because I know I can balance academics and the soccer team.”  

She later thanked the White Plains Athletic Department and her family for supporting her journey.

Ryleigh Baumann  

Ryleigh, one of the most accomplished divers in recent WPHS history, will attend Sacred Heart University, where she will join the Division I swimming and diving program.

She has earned All-League honors, multiple top finishes in Section 1 Championships, and qualified for the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) state championships in the 1-meter, 11-dive event.

Assistant swim coach Rebecca Fahey celebrated her contributions.

“Ryleigh’s passion for diving is clear, but she also played an important role on our relay teams. As a senior captain, she supported every teammate and brought incredible enthusiasm to each meet,” she said.

“Sacred Heart is gaining an awesome new Pioneer – but she will always be a Tiger to us,” Ms. Fahey added.

Ryleigh, who competes for the Marlins Diving Club, recently reached her goal of qualifying for States, where she will compete this weekend.

As families gathered for photos and cake, Mr. Cameron closed the ceremony by acknowledging the shared effort behind each success story.

“Parents, thank you for everything you’ve done since your kids were tiny. This journey is stressful, exhausting – and in the end – rewarding,” he said.