CONWAY — Wednesday was a day six local student-athletes will never forget as they made life-changing decisions — decisions that will see them continue their athletic careers. It was National Letter of Intent signing day. The first day where athletes could officially commit to colleges and universities for the 2022-23 school year.
Three current Kennett High seniors — Taylor Garland, Taylor Gaudette and Grace Perley —signed their letters of intent in a ceremony Wednesday afternoon in the Peter Ames Gymnasium at KHS surrounded by family and current coaches.
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