Four Student Athletes Commit to Collegiate Athletics

New Lenox, IL (May 20, 2025) – Providence Catholic High School is proud to announce that four of its exceptional student-athletes will be continuing their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level.

Mr. Doug Ternik, Athletic Director at Providence Catholic, shared his pride in the students’ achievements. “We couldn’t be prouder of these outstanding young athletes, who have excelled both in the classroom and as leaders in their sports. As they take this exciting next step, we extend our best wishes for their future and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish, both on the field and beyond.”

Luke Leverett of Frankfort has committed to Southern Illinois University Carbondale to compete in both football and track. The son of Walter and Ophelia Leverett, Luke is a graduate of Noonan Elementary Academy and a member of Parkview Parish. A consistent honor roll student and multi-sport athlete, he has competed in football and track for four years and played basketball as a freshman. Among his many accolades, Luke has been named Track MVP, a New Balance Nationals Top 15 Finalist, and the State Runner-Up in the 60m dash. He is the Conference Champion in the 60m and currently ranks #20 in the nation in the event. He is also a sectional champion in the 100m, and was a state qualifier in the 4×2, 100m, and 200m event. He is tied for the school record in the 100m dash. In football, Luke earned All-State and All-Conference honors and tied the state record for most interceptions in a single game. “I would like to thank my parents, my family, my friends, and God for blessing me with this wonderful opportunity,” said Luke.

Zoey Xydakis of Joliet has committed to Illinois State University to continue her cheerleading career. The daughter of Gus and Melissa Xydakis, Zoey is a graduate of Troy Junior High and a member of All Saints Greek Orthodox Church. At ISU, she plans to major in Interior Design and minor in Business. A dedicated student and athlete, Zoey has earned honor roll recognition and has been active in both the Habitat for Humanity Club and Art Club. She has been a four-year member of the cheer team, a three-year lacrosse player, and joined track in her senior year. She was named Cheer All-American and Most Improved in Lacrosse. “I would like to thank my cheer coaches Bridget, Mike, and Summer, as well as my family for always being there for me, and my team for pushing me to be my best,” said Zoey.

Jaxson Foster of Joliet has committed to Saint Louis University to continue his career in track and field. He is the son of William and Jodi Foster, a graduate of Rockdale Elementary, and a member of Parkview Christian Church. Jaxson plans to major in Computer Science and minor in Machine Learning. A high-achieving student, he has been on the honor roll and involved in the D.I.A.L.O.G.U.E. Club and Forensic Science Club. Athletically, he participated in basketball his freshman year, played baseball all four years, and joined the track and field team for his junior and senior years, serving as team captain his senior year. “I’d like to thank Coach Coglianese, Coach Ray, Coach Smith, and my mom for everything they’ve done for me—through both baseball and track. Thank you to everyone who helped me push myself to be better and reach this goal,” said Jaxson.

Mia Piano of Minooka has committed to Illinois State University to continue her cheerleading career on an academic scholarship. She is the daughter of Andrew and Brittany Piano, a graduate of Channahon Junior High, and a member of St. Ann’s Parish in Channahon. Mia will major in Nursing at ISU. An honor roll student and National Honor Society inductee, she has also served in the Habitat for Humanity Club during her junior and senior years. Athletically, Mia has been a four-year member of the cheerleading and track teams and played lacrosse in her junior and senior years. She was named an All-American in cheerleading her junior year and earned the Ultimate Base Cheer award as a sophomore. “I would like to especially thank my mom and dad, my family and friends, and my coaches Bridget, Mike, and Summer for their support,” said Mia.

Providence Catholic High School congratulates these remarkable student-athletes and wishes them continued success in their academic and athletic pursuits.