Three standout football players from Avon High School have officially committed to play at Division I universities, marking a significant moment in their athletic careers. On December 3, 2025, Jakob Weatherspoon, Lance Dawson, and Ryan Stolarski signed their national letters of intent, solidifying their future in college football.
Avon coach Mike Elder expressed special pride in this moment, reflecting on the journey from youth football to this pivotal achievement. “When Weatherspoon was spending the night in my living room or when Blake and Ryan were on the same flag football team in kindergarten, you just see a bunch of little kids running around,” Elder said. “It’s special for me to have that perspective of the time from when they were in first grade all the way through this journey. Watching them evolve, all three of these kids deserve this opportunity.”
While Dawson did not have an early start in football, he rose remarkably fast. The senior defensive lineman and tight end only began playing in his sophomore year and quickly became an essential part of the team. Committing to the University of Cincinnati over the summer, he expressed gratitude for his rapid development. “It just means I’m very blessed,” Dawson stated. “I thank God and my family for sticking with me and helping me buckle down and make sure my grades are good enough to play.”
Weatherspoon’s journey has also been noteworthy. A highly regarded four-star recruit, he flipped his commitment from Ohio State to the University of North Carolina in July. He will join the Tar Heels under the guidance of Coach Bill Belichick, who is embarking on his first full offseason with the team. Despite UNC finishing with a record of 4-8 in 2025, Weatherspoon remains optimistic about the future. “I didn’t expect them to be 10-0 or whatever; it’s a whole new staff. They had 41 players out of the portal,” he said. “I can’t wait to see what happens with that.”
In a twist of fate, Weatherspoon’s high school season was cut short by a thumb injury, but his spirits remain high as he cheers on his teammates in their pursuit of a second consecutive Division II state championship. “There’s always other people playing. I know I played a lot and all that, but maybe this is for the better,” he reflected. “It really made me appreciate playing more and the brotherhood we have together.”
Stolarski, a senior linebacker, has also enjoyed a successful final season at Avon, earning numerous postseason accolades. He is excited to continue his football career at Miami University in Ohio. “I’m just grateful for all of it,” Stolarski said. “It’s just really cool to see all this stuff that the coaches and our family and teammates do for us to make us feel appreciated.”
As these three players transition to their collegiate careers, their success serves as an inspiration to current and future athletes at Avon High School. Their commitment to their respective programs emphasizes the potential that dedication and perseverance can unlock in the world of collegiate athletics.
