By Craig Beilfuss
LocalSportsJournal.com

WHITEHALL–Whitehall senior Hailey Carnes made things official on Wednesday morning as she signed her national letter of intent to continue her basketball career at Muskegon Community College.

Carnes was a key contributor this past basketball season and led the Vikings to a 13-11 overall record. Whitehall also won their first girls district championship in 18 years.

“Hailey is the ultimate student-athlete,” said Whitehall girls basketball coach Brian Milliron. “She is a great young lady. Finally, Hailey is just a special person and she will always have a special place among Whitehall fans.”

“Family plays a big role at MCC. Everything I am hearing here today, her sports, her academics, fits exactly what we are looking for. We’re excited about the upcoming season,” said Jayhawk coach Jason Cooper.

Carnes played varsity basketball the past two seasons as a point guard. She also has played softball the past three seasons, primarily as a left fielder.

“I have always loved basketball, and the thought of not playing next year, hurt me more than I thought it would,” Carnes said. “MCC reached out to me and gave me the opportunity to continue playing. Whitehall helped me grow and become who I am today as an athlete and a student. I was given such great opportunities at Whitehall to explore sports and classes that interest me.”

Carnes plans to major in elementary education. She has a 3.960 grade point average. Hailey is the daughter of Shelly and John Carnes.

Photos by LSJ photographer Leo Valdez