Two members of Bentonville's boys soccer team found a pair of out-of-state NCAA Division II schools to their liking and have signed national letters of intent before starting their senior seasons next week.
Josh Howard made his choice official last week when he signed with Rogers State, while Zack Estrada finalized his decision Monday when he signed with Fort Hays State.
Estrada was an all-state selection as a midfielder and had six goals and two assists during the Tigers' state championship run last year. He chose Fort Hays State, located in Hays, Kansas, over Northeastern (Okla.) State.
"I visited the campus two times, and after the first time I felt I could see myself going there for four years," Estrada said. "After the second time, I said I wanted to be a Fort Hays State Tiger. I felt comfortable with the coaches and the players, and Fort Hays is a small town like Bentonville, but without the Walmarts.
"They have a large squad, so they want to see what position I will play next year because I've played a lot of positions here. I could possibly redshirt my first year, which is perfectly fine with me so I can get used to the system. Hopefully, I'll play able to play without the redshirt next year."
Howard, also an all-state selection as a midfielder, had seven goals and four assists last season. He chose the Claremore, Okla., school over places such as John Brown, Union University, Lyon College and University of the Ozark.
"Rogers State is a high enough level where I can challenge myself, but it's also a place where I can grow as a player and make my way on the team," Rogers said. "I will have more playing time there than I would if I went a place that didn't have as many opportunities and more opportunities to be a better player.
"The coach has told me that I am somewhat of an adaptable player, and that's how he wants to use me. He wants to use me in the center-midfield and let me adapt to whatever style they want to me, so I'll be a flexible option. I don't prefer a style of play; I just want to get the ball."
-- Henry Apple • @NWAHenry
Sports on 02/24/2015