In a poignant ceremony at Eastern Arizona College, two standout athletes, Steliyana Chakarova and Samantha Madrid, took the next big step in their athletic careers by signing at the next level. Chakarova, an outside hitter from Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, is set to join the volleyball powerhouse Utah Valley University (UVU), while Madrid, a women’s soccer player, has signed at Cumberland University, in Tennessee.

Chakarova, a standout sophomore from Eastern Arizona, expressed her excitement about her upcoming journey to UVU. Having spent a week in Utah during the summer, Chakarova was drawn to the state’s charm and decided to make it her new home. The deciding factor in her choice was the connection she felt with Coach Atoa, whose vision for volleyball, and life, resonates with hers. Chakarova, eager to don UVU’s green colors, looks forward to making her mark in the WAC Conference starting in the Fall of 2024. Her remarkable achievements, including earning the 2023 NJCAA Region I, DI All Region Team honor, showcase her dedication and skill on Eastern Arizona College’s volleyball team.

Coach Atoa expressed his enthusiasm about Chakarova joining the Wolverines, emphasizing not only her athletic prowess but also her character. The coach eagerly anticipates having her on campus and witnessing her contributions to the team and the university community.

Madrid, a versatile athlete who left an indelible mark on Eastern Arizona College, is set to take her talents to Cumberland University, in Tennessee. Reflecting on her three years at EAC, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities she received, including being a guest speaker at graduation and contributing to the success of both the women’s basketball and soccer teams.

Madrid’s journey at EAC began with a walk-on opportunity in basketball, followed by a return to the soccer field after a two-year church mission in Florida. EAC’s head women’s soccer coach, Charles Long, played a pivotal role in Madrid’s soccer journey, providing her the chance to try out for the inaugural women’s soccer team at EAC. Despite not playing competitively for four years, Madrid’s skills seamlessly translated back into the game, contributing to the team’s remarkable achievements, including finishing second in the region.

Long expressed pride in Samantha Madrid, emphasizing her leadership on and off the field as a team captain. Madrid’s story exemplifies the transformative impact of opportunities provided at Eastern Arizona College, showcasing the growth and success that athletes can achieve. As Chakarova and Madrid embark on their new journeys, their stories will undoubtedly inspire aspiring athletes at EAC and beyond.