Sammy Watson Signs With Texas A&M


One of the most sought-after college recruits of the Class of 2017 has made her decision. Rush-Henrietta (NY) High School senior Sammy Watson signed​ with Texas A&M on Thursday, ending a long recruiting process that also saw her take official visits to LSU and Southern California.

Watson, who holds numerous state and national records, performed the trifecta this winter by breaking the U.S. all-time marks in the 600m, 800m, and 1000m. At the time, she was already a member of the Rush-Henrietta squad that broke the indoor national record in the sprint medley relay. That success has also carried over to outdoors, where Watson is NY No. 2 in the 800m, NY No. 3 in the 1500m, and NY No. 7 in the 400m all-time.


Watson will be joining Kellenberg (NY) alum Jazmine Fray at Texas A&M next season. An Aggies sophomore, Fray recently set the 800m indoor collegiate record this winter in 2:00.69. The fellow New Yorkers know each other after attempting to qualify for IAAF U20 Championships last spring.


Arkansas was considered one of the early favorites to garner Watson's signature. Her sister, Ceara Watson, currently runs for the Razorbacks, and there was speculation that Sammy might join her sister in Fayetteville. Watson also has a younger brother, currently in seventh grade, who competes in several sports, including running track.




Watson was also reportedly considering becoming a professional.

She joins another major talent, Olympian Sydney McLaughlin (Union Catholic, NJ)--who signed with the University of Kentucky in November--in turning down an opportunity to head to the pro ranks. Both have stated the college experience is important to their development.

Watson is slated to race the "Glavin 3000m" on Saturday, demonstrating her range.