Gaston’s Shocking Move: Why Signing with Monmouth College Could Change His Life Forever!

In a proud moment for the Van-Far community, senior Gaven Gaston has officially signed to play football for Monmouth College in Illinois. The signing ceremony took place on Friday morning at Van-Far High School in Vandalia, marking a significant milestone in Gaston’s athletic career.

Gaston is not just a standout football player; he is also a multi-sport athlete, showcasing his talents in basketball during the winter and baseball and track and field in the spring. His hard work on the football field this season earned him several accolades, including being named a Class 1 all-state third team running back and a Class 1 District 2 running back. He was also recognized as a second team player in the Eastern Missouri Conference and made the first team as a defensive back.

This past football season, Gaston ran for an impressive 1,043 yards on just 80 carries, averaging over 13 yards per carry. He also demonstrated his versatility by making nine catches for 193 yards and scoring a remarkable 18 total touchdowns. On the defensive side, he contributed 20.5 total tackles and recorded four interceptions—one of which he returned for a touchdown. His overall special teams performance included eight returns for 293 yards.

As he prepares for his transition to college athletics, Gaston is also contemplating his academic future, with a potential interest in studying exercise science. His achievements on the field and commitment to his education highlight the balance he seeks as he embarks on this new chapter.

For those interested in following Gaston’s journey and learning more about his impact both on and off the field, be sure to check out the full story in the Mexico Ledger on April 22, 2026.

To purchase photo reprints from the signing ceremony, you can contact the Mexico Ledger office at 573-581-1111.

This signing marks not just an individual accomplishment for Gaston but also a testament to the supportive environment fostered by his coaches, family, and community in Vandalia. As he sets his sights on playing at the collegiate level, many are excited to see how he will continue to develop and thrive in both athletics and academics.