Yahir Pineda is heading off to play at the next level.

The Hawks soccer program will be his new home where he’ll take up his studies during the fall and play for Shorter University up in Rome.

Pineda signed with the Hawks while surrounded by family, friends, teammates and coaches during a ceremony at Cedartown High School’s HON Room this past Friday, May 16.

“I’m excited to play at the next level, and to represent Shorter University on my new journey,” Pineda said.

The son of Arnaldo and Erika Pineda, he was joined by sister Leticia Pineda and nieces Layla, Kinslee and Elisa Cruz during last week’s ceremony. He did not yet announce what he plans to study starting in the fall.

The CHS Bulldog senior just wrapped up his season with a first team All-Region honor, and finished off with a 3-goal performance against Ridgeland. He’ll be graduating with the Class of 2025 on Thursday evening at CHS.