RIO GRANDE, Ohio - First-year University of Rio Grande head softball coach Kristen Bradshaw has announced the signing of Gallia Academy High's Mattie Lanham to a national letter of intent to join the RedStorm beginning with the 2013 season.
"I couldn't be happier," Lanham said. "I've always wanted to go to Rio, so it was a very easy decision for me. Playing at the collegiate level has been a goal and a dream of mine since I was in the fifth grade."
Lanham, a catcher, enters her senior season for head coach Jimmy Niday's Blue Angels as a two-time All-Southeastern Ohio Athletic League selection and a two-time All-Southeast District honoree.
She was also a member of the Southeast District Underclassmen Team.
"I'm excited for Mattie to join the Rio Family and the softball team," Bradshaw said of her first signee since becoming the head coach of the RedStorm. "She loves the game and is a hard worker. One of Mattie's strengths is her knowledge on the bases and that's one thing I look for the most."
Lanham, who plans to major in Early Childhood Education, chose Rio Grande over an offer from rival Shawnee State. She also made visits to both Union (Ky.) and Marietta (Ohio).
Lanham said she hopes to improve her hitting ability before arriving on campus, but added that there are things she can bring to the Rio program.
"I feel like I can bring energy and leadership to the team," Lanham said. "My ultimate goal at Rio Grande is to come out with a degree in my field, but I also want to make many goals with the softball team and then reach them."
She is daughter of Jeff and Mary Lou Lanham of Rio Grande.
