Shasta College Athletes Shine, Sign, and Transfer, Leaving a Lasting Legacy

REDDING, CA – From breaking decades-old track records to signing with top NCAA football programs, Shasta College athletes made headlines in the 2024–25 academic year—and now they’re headed to the next level. More than two dozen student-athletes from multiple sports have either signed athletic scholarships or transferred to four-year universities, capping off a season of academic achievement, athletic dominance, and personal growth.

“These young men and women are shining examples of what’s possible at the community college level,” said Shasta College Athletic Director Mike Mari. “They’ve pushed themselves on the field, in the classroom, and in life. We’re proud of who they are and excited to see what they’ll do next.”

Football: Twelve Knights Move On

Twelve Shasta College football players earned scholarships to continue their playing careers at the NCAA and NAIA levels, showcasing the strength of the program under Coach Hamilton’s leadership.

Matthew Lefeau – Mississippi State (D1) | 2× All-NorCal, All-American
Jahari Johnson – San Jose State (D1) | 2× All-NorCal, All-American
Levi Durrell – Northern Colorado (D1) | All-NorCal, Shasta Male Athlete of the Year
Samuel Cardon – Idaho State (D1)
Jabrayan Richburg – Minnesota State (D2) | 2× All-NorCal
Sione Takai – Midwestern State (D2) | All-NorCal
Phillip Barr – Southwest Minnesota State University (D2)
Tanner Dobeck – Findlay University (D2)
Hakeem Lowe – Southwest Baptist (D2)
David Sheffer – Kansas Wesleyan (NAIA)
Gavin Skerik – Kansas Wesleyan (NAIA) | 2× All-NorCal
Zemarion Silas – Graceland University (NAIA)

“We are very proud of the 12 Knights who signed scholarships to play at the NCAA and NAIA levels,” said Head Football Coach Bryon Hamilton. “During their time at Shasta College, these young men achieved excellence both on the football field and in the classroom. We are excited to watch them as they pursue their dreams at the four-year level.”

Track & Field: Record-Breaking Legacy

Emma Gaddy, Two-sport athlete in track and women’s basketball, signed with Chico State for track after breaking her personal and school record in the 400-meter dash and earning back-to-back conference titles and a NorCal championship.

“Emma is a dream to coach—humble, competitive, and a leader on and off the track,” said Shasta Coach Williams. “Her legacy will inspire runners for years.”

Women’s Basketball: Scholarships and Bright Futures

Kiley Johnson signed with Simpson University to continue playing.
Emma Gaddy, track and basketball standout.

Baseball: Home Run Team!

Sodi Takanaga signed with Midway University in Kentucky. An international standout, Takanaga excelled in the classroom as well as baseball with a 3.79 GPA.

Aaron Wood will continue playing at Dordt College in Iowa, where he’ll pursue a degree in chemistry after graduating with a 3.56 GPA.

Nolan Bentley, the team’s saves leader, will play for Eastern Oregon University.

Volleyball and Swimming: Set up for Success

Hannah Martins is transferring to Southern Oregon University to compete in beach volleyball.

Kenny Rupp, a standout swimmer and former Shasta Male Athlete of the Year, signed with Adams State University (CO) after remaining unbeaten this season and ranking #1 in the Central Valley Conference.

More Than Athletes

“These stories of our student-athletes reflect more than just wins and stats,” said Athletic Director Mike Mari. “At Shasta College, we’re focused on developing the whole student-athlete—helping them grow in their sport, excel academically, and leave here better prepared for what comes next. For many of these students, our programs have opened doors to opportunities they might not have otherwise had. Whether they're transferring to play at the next level or pursuing career goals beyond athletics, we're proud to have played a role in shaping their journey and will forever remember them as Shasta Knights!”

Shasta College serves students across Shasta, Tehama, and Trinity Counties in rural far-northern California as one of the 116 campuses in the California Community College system. As the only public post-secondary institution in this 10,132 square mile area, Shasta College offers a wide range of programs including certificates, associate degrees, transfer options, and a fully online Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. With campuses in Redding, Tehama, Weaverville, and Burney, as well as numerous online courses, Shasta College provides accessible, high-quality education in far-northern California. The college has been recognized with numerous grants for its innovative programs that contribute to the success of students and the broader community.

In November 2016, the passage of Measure H, a $139 million general obligation bond, enabled significant advancements at Shasta College. These include the construction of an ultra-modern state-of-the-art Computer Information Systems (CIS) instructional center, a Public Safety Training Center for Fire Academy and interagency training, a new Veterans Support and Success Center, completion of the Industrial Technology/Machining center, an Athletic Field House, a new Student Services building at the Tehama Campus, and the Community Leadership Center (CLC) in downtown Redding. Measure H also funded an additional solar array on the Redding campus, which, together with an existing solar array, will meet 80% of the college’s energy needs. Additionally, major technology infrastructure upgrades have been implemented, and the college is remodeling its Library, set to reopen in Spring 2025.

In 2025, Shasta College will proudly celebrate 75 years of service to the community. The college is especially proud of its innovative and community partnerships with industry leaders such as SHIELD, McConnell Foundation, CalFire, Sierra Pacific Industries, and many of our healthcare and dentist offices and providers. With a 337-acre main campus that includes a working farm, cutting-edge Early Childhood Education instructional and childcare center, heavy equipment and logging operations program, Shasta College continues to be a leader in higher education. It offers extensive student support services, including counseling, tutoring, financial aid, and veterans’ services. Shasta College remains committed to fostering student success and community enrichment through its comprehensive educational offerings and robust community partnerships.