When Wilbraham & Monson Academy's Jahkeem Hunt '16 went for his visit at Franklin Pierce University, he felt like he was still on the Academy's campus.
He knew then he had found a college home.
Jahkeem, who will graduate as one of the best Boys' Soccer players in WMA history, signed his National Letter of Intent April 20.
"It's been a long journey," Jahkeem said. "Since freshman year watching all my teammates and friends, I couldn't wait until I got that chance to play in college. I'm relieved to sign with Franklin Pierce.
"The Franklin Pierce community and the campus, they aren't the biggest, but it's a good size and everybody seemed close, just like at WMA. I wanted something just like that so I could feel close to people and feel very welcome as soon as I get there. And the coach seemed like he knew his stuff and that he would help me get to the next level, and that's what I'm trying to do."
Jahkeem played at a high level all four years he suited up for the Titans. He graduates as the third all-time leader in goals and fourth all-time leader in points. He was named the team MVP in 2015, which included three game-winning goals.
"This is a culmination of four years of hard work in the classroom, in the weight room and on the field," Coach Gary Cook said. "We're proud of Jahkeem. A lot of people have supported him – his friends, his classmates, the faculty. It started at home with Tyrell Burgess '05, a native Bermudian who played here as well.
"There have been many accomplishments for Jahkeem, but it's his leadership as a captain, prefect and strong member of our community that attracted the Franklin Pierce coach, Roy Fink, a friend and professional colleague of mine, to Jahkeem."
A four-year starter, Jahkeem loved his time at the Academy, where he received an entire scope of coaching from Coach Cook and assistant Sean McGrath '07.
"Coach Cook lives the game," Jahkeem said. "He's been coaching here for 30-something years and he loves the kids. I respect him as a coach a lot because when a coach tells me he loses sleep because of us – he doesn't get paid to coach us – that shows he cares.
"And Coach McGrath, he's my boy. He's been like a brother. He supported me all four years, been there through thick and thin. He helps me stay up, and he's brought me up more than down."