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Union Academy Celebrates Four Female Athletes Signing to Compete at the Collegiate Level

Union Academy Celebrates Four Female Athletes Signing to Compete at the Collegiate Level
Jennifer Sutton Smith


Union Academy Charter School is proud to announce that four standout female athletes have signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level—three at NCAA Division I programs and one at a strong NCAA Division II institution.

Union Academy Charter School is proud to announce that four standout female athletes have signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level—three at NCAA Division I programs and one at a strong NCAA Division II institution. These seniors, each distinguished in her sport, represent the dedication, discipline, and leadership that define Union Academy athletics.

Golfer Katie Kobera, the Yadkin Valley Conference Player of the Year and fifth-place finisher at the NCHSAA State Championship, has committed to Wingate University. Known for her steady growth and quiet determination, Kobera has been a consistent presence for the Cardinals. Head Coach Deb Coby praised her, saying Wingate is gaining “not only a talented golfer, but also a young woman of character, determination, and heart. I’m very proud of the way Katie has grown as both an athlete and a leader—she represents the best of what we strive for at UA.”

Softball standout Avery Wilson, a two-time NCHSAA state champion, signed with Coastal Carolina University. One of the most dominant pitchers in program history, Wilson recorded a 1.44 ERA, a 42–8 career record, 486 strikeouts, and exceptional offensive numbers including a .416 batting average, 69 hits, and 69 RBI. Head Coach Darbi Chestnut described Wilson as “a hard worker and a natural leader who thrives under pressure. Her growth in the past three years has been incredible, and she dominates every situation she’s put in. Avery has been essential to the success and growth of our program, and I can’t wait to watch her continue to succeed as a Chanticleer.”

Also signing from Union Academy’s powerhouse softball program is catcher Taylor Surratt, who committed to Auburn University. A two-time state champion with a .444 batting average, Surratt has compiled 108 hits, 74 RBI, and 10 home runs, establishing herself as one of the most consistent offensive threats in the lineup. Coach Chestnut praised her drive and work ethic, noting, “Taylor is constantly asking for more reps and more opportunities to improve. I’ve truly never coached anyone with her level of dedication. Her elite mentality, willingness to outwork everyone, and commitment to excellence are what we strive to build our program around. Auburn is getting a remarkable athlete and teammate.”

Rounding out the group is Kayda Geyer, one of the most decorated swimmers in school history, who signed with Colorado State University. A four-time NCHSAA state champion and 18U National Champion ranked 26th nationally by SwimCloud, Geyer has also represented the United States internationally, placing eighth in the 200-meter breaststroke at the World Aquatics Junior Championships in Romania. She was recently named to the 2025–2026 USA Swimming National Junior Team. Head Coach Jennifer Love described her as “humble, hardworking, supportive, and grounded. Kayda leads by example in everything she does, and her accomplishments are proof of the dedication she has put in throughout the years. She is a phenomenal athlete and an even better teammate.”

Union Academy celebrates the accomplishments of these four exceptional athletes—Katie Kobera, Avery Wilson, Taylor Surratt, and Kayda Geyer—whose commitment to excellence embodies the school’s values of Challenge, Character, and Community. Their legacy has left a lasting impact on Union Academy, and the school looks forward to cheering them on at the next level.