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Raiders Sign Letters of Intent

February 3, 2022

Durelle Hall '22, James Morrison '22, Athletic Director Phil Archer '99, Liam Gent '22, and Jackson Parker '22.

On February 2, the Cretin-Derham Hall community came together to celebrate the five seniors signing National Letters of Intent to play their sport at the college level next year.

"We're very proud of these impressive student-athletes, and excited to watch them continue to represent Cretin-Derham Hall at the collegiate level next year," said Phil Archer '99, Athletic Director.

Liam Gent '22, Rugby, Queens University of Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)

Why did you choose Queens University of Charlotte?
I chose Queens University of Charlotte because it is a small school and has the major I want to study. The legacy and what the rugby program has accomplished in a small amount of time were significant deciding factors. Also, I knew I wanted to be a part of what the program stands for.
What is your favorite memory from playing rugby?
My favorite memory from playing rugby is definitely winning the state championship my junior year. It was the first championship win in Eagan Rugby Club history, and to be a part of the team that finally did it is something I will never forget. (Note: CDH does not have a rugby team, Gent has developed his skills by playing with Eagan Rugby Club)
What do you love about rugby?
I love everything about rugby. The flow and uniqueness of the game and the camaraderie I have with my teammates are the things I never experienced in any other sport I've played. Rugby has changed my life, and I don't know who I'd be without it.
Why are you excited to play in college?
I'm excited to play higher-level rugby and challenge myself to become a better player. Also, to meet new people who have the same lifelong passion as me and live out my dream of playing D1 rugby.

Durelle Hall '22, Football, University of Minnesota - Duluth

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota - Duluth?
I chose the University of Minnesota-Duluth because at the camps I went to in the summer and the visits I went on, the coaches showed much love for me. They continued to let me know how much of a good addition I would be to the program. The players were also very welcoming.

What is your favorite CDH football memory?

My favorite memory of playing football at CDH is playing on the freshman squad. I learned a lot when I was a freshman from my coaches. I still use what I learned until this day which helps me a lot as a player. I met some friends that I could trust for the rest of my life.

What do you love about football?

I love how challenging the game is and how it keeps me on my toes. You have to be dominant to play the game and I love to compete. I love the long lasting relationships I built throughout the years I’ve played football.

Why are you excited to play in college?

It has always been a dream to play college ball at any level. I’ve been playing against top competition all my years of playing football but this is a whole different level where I have to compete even harder. The level of competition is what excites me for the next college football season.

James Morrison '22, Football, University of St. Thomas

Why did you choose the University of St. Thomas?

I chose the University of St. Thomas because it instantly felt like home with the welcoming community. It reminded me of CDH and I knew that is where I wanted to be. On top of all this, I believe the coaching staff is—if not the best, one of the best in the nation.

What is your favorite CDH football memory?

My favorite memory from playing at CDH is spending the amount of time I did with the people I love—my teammates. So many memories with them and there’s not one on the team I wouldn’t help.

What do you love about football?

I’m not sure what I don’t love about football, but my favorite this has to be the friendships you make. I can confidently say football creates the strongest bonds amongst all other sports.

Why are you excited to play in college?

I’m very excited to play in college for the new memories I can make with new teammates and also with this coaching staff. I’m also really looking forward to working my hardest and get exposure to the NFL for the possibility of making it. It has always been a dream since I was a young kid, and I’m going to work my hardest to fulfill it.

Jackson Parker '22, Soccer, Grand View University (Des Moines, IA)

Why did you choose Grand View University?

I chose to go to Grand View because I liked how they played soccer and thought the campus and academics were a good fit for me.

What is your favorite CDH soccer memory?

The community was great and everyone you meet you get to create a bond with, no matter what grade they are in.

What do you love about soccer?

When you get to really know your teammates after a while you know what they are thinking and then when you play in a game everything just works and flows really well.

Why are you excited to play in college?
Being able to play at a higher level that will test whether or not I’m able to compete with others.

Alesana Anetipa '22 has also signed to play football at Valley City State University in Valley City, ND.