KO celebrated five standout football players officially committed to continue their athletic and academic journeys at the Division I collegiate level. Surrounded by teammates, coaches, friends, and family, each student-athlete shared heartfelt reflections on the people and moments that shaped their paths.

DJ Biggins — Boston College (D1)
DJ Biggins’ signing was filled with gratitude and emotion as he spoke about the support system that helped him reach this moment. He thanked his parents for “all the sacrifices,” his little brother for motivating him, and his coaches—particularly Coach Batory and Coach Dak—who he said were instrumental in his growth as a player and a young man. “Without him, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to be up here right now,” Biggins said of Coach Batory, reflecting on how guidance during his sophomore year changed everything. Biggins, a basketball standout, initially came to KO for the basketball program. “No matter what I choose to do,” Biggins said, “you coaches were with me 100%.”

Nick Chomko — Central Connecticut State University (D1)
For Nick Chomko, CCSU felt like home from the start — literally and figuratively. Being close to family was important, but it was the culture and camaraderie on campus that sealed his decision. Chomko recounted memorable moments, including KO’s win over Wethersfield and capturing the Evergreen Championship. He credited KO’s demanding athletic and academic structure for preparing him for the next level. In an emotional reflection, Chomko thanked God, his mother, and his late father, who inspired his love for football. He also honored coaches who pushed him, sometimes through snow-covered fields, and helped him believe in his potential.

Jason Mathews — Yale University (D1)
Jason Mathews chose Yale for a powerful combination of high-level football, coaching stability, and world-class academics.

Being close to home was a bonus, but Jason was especially drawn to the program’s winning tradition and the guidance of Head Coach Tony Reno. He highlighted the unmatched value of a Yale degree, knowing that football eventually ends, but opportunity through education lasts a lifetime. Jason also shared how transferring to KO opened doors he never imagined—rigorous academics, supportive teachers, and a football staff deeply committed to showcasing its players. “These were strangers that became my family,” he said of his teammates.

Travis Parsons — University of New Hampshire (D1)
For Travis Parsons, UNH felt right from the moment he stepped on campus. Each visit strengthened his sense of belonging and excitement about the program. One of his favorite football memories was KO’s Senior Day victory over Worcester, where he faced a quarterback who would soon be his college teammate. Parsons expressed gratitude to his family for long drives, hotel stays, and unwavering support—and thanked coaches who encouraged him to play football when he wasn’t sure he wanted to. The college-style structure at KO, both athletically and academically, prepared him well for the next chapter.

Cameron Thomas — Bucknell University (D1)
After a lengthy recruiting process, Cam Thomas found his perfect fit at Bucknell University. The school’s academic prestige and its defensive scheme aligned with his ambitions. He spoke about how Bucknell felt like home from the moment he arrived, thanks to the warmth of its coaches and players. Thomas’ most cherished KO memory was the team’s win over St. Paul’s, which symbolized years of growth, hard work, and brotherhood. In a powerful speech, Thomas thanked God, his parents, his siblings, and the coaches who took a chance on him. KO, he said, didn’t just make him a better athlete; it changed his life. 

These five athletes represent far more than athletic skill; they embody resilience, gratitude, leadership, and the spirit of KO.  Their journeys reflect the power of community, the strength of belief, and the impact of coaches who invest deeply in their players. Their commitments are not just personal victories but proud moments for the entire KO family.