GREENSBORO, N.C. -- UNC Greensboro (UNCG) softball head coach
Janelle Breneman has announced the signings of Reese Byrd, Meredith Harwood, Grace Loftin, and Jessie Shipley to National Letter of Intents to attend the University and begin playing for the Spartans in the fall of 2021.
"Our coaching staff is thrilled to welcome Reese, Meredith, Grace and Jessie to Greensboro," Breneman said. "These four young ladies will not only benefit our program but the community and our university. I specifically like the highly competitive level that each of these young ladies have been playing in travel ball.
Here's a closer look at the signees.
Reese Byrd
School: Nansemond Suffolk Academy
Hometown: Suffolk, Va.
Position: RHP
Travel team: Orion Hunter Elite-Murphy
Highlights: All-Conference, All-State, All-Tidewater in softball; varsity letters in basketball and volleyball; 2019 Virginia State softball champion (VISAA)
Coach Breneman says: "Reese is a fierce pitcher that possesses movement, speed, and deception. Her presence in the circle will fit in well with our team competitive mindset and drive."
Meredith Harwood
High School: West Stanley
Hometown: Oakboro, N.C.
Travel team: Firecrackers-LaRouse/Crowe
Position: Infield
Accomplishments: 2019 NC HS State softball champion (NCHSAA); all-conference in tennis
Coach Breneman says: "We are excited to add Meredith to the depth of our strong offense. She brings a ton of power at the plate. She will also be a great addition as a corner infielder."
Grace Loftin
High School: Newton-Conover
Hometown: Conover, N.C.
Position: Infield
Travel team: Carolina Elite-Genovese
Accomplishments: All-Conference in softball and basketball; 2020 NC HS State basketball champion (NCHSAA); All-Tournament team in basketball; All-county in basketball; Defensive MVP for softball.
Coach Breneman said: "Grace is a very versatile player with the skill set to play multiple positions. She is a middle infielder with a strong arm that also brings a powerful bat."
Jessie Shipley
High School: Austin
Hometown: Sugar Land, Tx.
Position: Infield.
Travel team: Illusions Gold.
Accomplishments: All-district in softball.
Coach Breneman says: "Jessie is a middle infielder that moves well, has a smooth glove and strong arm. She will be an asset on the dirt. Her ability to hit to all fields and her foot speed will contribute to our offensive plan."
Final Word from coach Breneman
"We will no doubt graduate several special players this upcoming year, but this talented group will help the transition. I look forward to seeing each of them wear the blue and gold. This class will assist in a continued championship quest and fit in to our Spartan locker room."
