The year is far from over, but Mount Si High School is already sending off a big crop of athletes with deals to play in college.

The Class of 2011 has 12 athletes with deals to play in college. Most have full-ride scholarships.

Signees include:

• Austen Bolves, rowing, University of Washington

• Jessie Hargett, girls soccer, Linfield College

• Joe Farmer, football, Illinois State University

• Jarrett Adams, football, Humboldt University

• Taylor Mitchell, football, Humboldt University

• Alexis Pearlstein, girls soccer, Ball State University

• Ryan Herman, boys soccer, University of California Santa Clara

• Eric Baumgardner, boys soccer, Humboldt State University

• Zoe Gogan, volleyball, Washington State University

• Jack Kelly, golf, Western Washington University

• Cami Guyer, gymnastics, San Jose State University

• Catie Fry, volleyball, Central Washington University

Senior athletes gathered to announce their choices during a Mount Si Signing Day event held Wednesday, Feb. 2, in the school commons.

Joe Farmer, a Mount Si tight end this fall, aired his decision that morning.

His decision was based both on the atmosphere at Illinois State and the chance to play early.

“When I went out there, it just felt right to me,” he said. “Everyone was a family. It reminded me of Mount Si.”

With two senior tight ends now, “and a bunch of young guys, I have a shot to compete,” Farmer added. “Hopefully, I can get it.” He plans to embrace a conditioning regimen this spring to prepare for next fall’s Redbirds season.

Farmer’s not worried about the transition to the Midwest.

“It gets cold in winter, warm in summer. I liked it,” he said. “I’m kind of looking for something different, to see other parts of the country.”

Mount Si soccer coach Darren Brown said the 12 athletes represented at Signing Day was a Mount Si record.

Players like Alexis Pearlstein, who is headed to Ball State, are role models for younger athletes and teammates, he said.

“She is a prime example of an athlete who has put blood, sweat, work and tears into what she’s doing, to accomplish where she’s going,” Brown told the Record. Such dedication starts at a young age. Brown urges older athletes to get in touch with younger youths.

“The kids look up to those girls and that relationship,” he said.

More athletes may be added to the list at a later signing period for baseball, softball and rowing.