Union County is becoming a hotbed for softball talent. This week, Smackover’s Karli Goocher and signed a scholarship offer for softball and, recently, PC junior Drue Thomas verbally committed to Drexel University.
Both girls spent the bulk of their summers competing on travel teams, playing games all over the country. Earning that scholarship was a team effort and most of that team wasn’t in the dugout.
Goocher shared the signing day experience with a lot of teammates, who didn’t swing a bat or wear a glove.
“To anybody who is reading this, thank you. Thanks for the love and support from family and friends. Thanks to all my coaches - Scott, Joe, Steele, Stefanie, Chad, Brittany, Dugan, and Kostas - for believing in me and pushing me to be the best me on and off the field,” she said. “Special thank you to my parents. I definitely couldn't have done this without them. They are my rock and I love them beyond words. Thanks to all those who helped make me the person I am today. I can't thank everyone who has been a part of my journey enough. I am thankful to say that I have grown up in a community that is full of beautiful, encouraging, and loving people.”
Goocher, who signed to play at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri on Thursday, offered advice to younger girls who would like to follow in her footsteps.
“For all those girls who want to play college softball, be bold in who you are, believe in yourself, practice hard, and trust that God will put you where you need to be,” she said. “With Him by your side, you can do all things. Keep pushing, keep getting better. You can do anything you put your mind to. People will notice your work ethic and your attitude way before they notice your abilities. Also, don't forget to thank your parents for being your biggest supporters. They are the ones that'll stay by your side through it all.”