A gym full of friends, family and media gathered at Chapel Hill High on Wednesday afternoon to watch two football players and two soccer players sign their letters of intent for college.

The most heralded is Chapel Hill offensive lineman Logan Tisch, who signed with Clemson. Tisch’s coach, Issac Marsh, says Logan grew to be a leader.

“He set the standard for what it’s like to come in as a freshman and contribute right away to the varsity program,” said Marsh. “He has done a fabulous job over the years just being a leader. He has demonstrated for the younger guys what needs to be accomplished for the program to be successful.”

Tisch is expected to be a engineering major at Clemson. He was an all-state performer at right guard during his senior year at CHHS.

Logan’s teammate, defensive end Noah Layden, signed with Campbell.

“It’s a dream come true,” said Layden, who played defensive end, kick returner and wide receiver at CHHS. “We all dream to play college football and very few get to do it. So it’s everything because so few get to do it.”

Layden was a key offensive threat during Chapel Hill’s run to the 3-AA state playoffs, which included a victory at defending state champion Southern Durham.

“Noah is one of those players that you don’t get to coach that often,” said Marsh. “The things that he has done for the program, on-and-off the field, speaks volumes. Campbell is getting a young man who is going to build their program.

Meanwhile, on the soccer pitch, Chapel Hill’s Ben Fisher signed with UNC-Wilmington.

This past fall, Fisher didn’t play with the Tigers, instead choosing to play with an academy team. Nonetheless, Fisher says being mentored by famed Chapel Hill High Coach Ron Benson was vital in moving on to the next level.

“It’s a great day,” said Fisher. “I’m very excited. I’ve looked forward to this for awhile.”

In girl’s soccer, Lianna Malawski is going to Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She scored 12 goals and 29 points for a Chapel Hill team that claimed the 3-A state championship in the final season of veteran head coach Ron Benson. Malawski thought Wednesday was a day that would never come.

“It’s the best day of my life,” said Malawski. “I didn’t even think I’d be signing for college ball. To be signing right now, after winning the state championship, is mind-blowing.”

Her new coach at CHHS, Jason Curtis, says Nova Southeastern will get a talented forward.

“She brings energy everyday to practice,” said Curtis. “She loves to play soccer. They’re really lucky to have her on the team. She’s going to be a great addition. She can score. She’s tough. She fights for every loose ball. She’s everything you can ask for.”

While Malawski has her college intentions set, there’s still work to do at home. The Tigers begin spring practice in two weeks.