Two Lady Wildcats signed letters of intent to play college softball on Monday, November 18.

Shayna Covington signed on to play for Winthrop and Tara Grimsley signed with Western Carolina.

Covington has been a varsity starter for six years and made a team-high 45 hits and 45 runs with 23 stolen bases last season. She hit 38 singles, five doubles, a triple, and a home run for nine RBIs. In the field, she made 28 putouts and 23 assists.

Covington says her love for the game came from a family friend, Melissa Thompson, who shared her love of the game with her. She plans to take her love of the game with her to the next level, along with her competitive spirit.

She says she was considering Winthrop even before they offered a scholarship, so the offer sealed the deal for her.

“I want to play softball at Winthrop because I love the school and everyone there has always been nice to me,” she said. “I think I will be a good fit because I enjoy having fun playing the game I love.”

Her parents, Stephanie and Don Covington, are supportive of her choice and very proud of their daughter’s success. “The opportunity to play for Winthrop is truly a blessing and we couldn’t be happier for her.

“Shayna has always been competitive and getting to play softball at the collegiate level is a testament to her hard work and desire. As parents, that’s all we really wanted, for her to be able to achieve her goals.”

In addition to softball, Covington also plays volleyball, where she finished the season with a team high 184 digs. She also made 15 kills, nine assists, and four aces, and scored 66 service points for the Lady Wildcats.

Grimsley has been a varsity starter for Dillon since ninth grade. She hit a team-high seven home runs, 13 doubles, and 41 RBIs last season and had a total of 43 hits and 43 runs with 77 total bases and three stolen bases. In the field, Grimsley made 22 putouts and three assists.

Grimsley said she can’t credit just one person with her love of the sport. “I think about my travel ball coaches and my high school coaches,” she said. “They have all been a part of my success in softball and I appreciate it. My parents have also been wonderful in supporting and encouraging me with my love of softball. I have also played with some great teammates over the past years.”

Grimsley had offers from several schools but decided that Western Carolina University was the best fit. “I really like the coaches there,” she said. “Coach Clift and Coach Glosson are great. I liked the size, layout, and atmosphere of the school. Everyone was so nice there.

“My dream has always been to play Division One softball,” she continued. “I am looking forward to being a part of the Western Carolina Catamounts softball team! I hope to be a productive player with my glove on defense and bat at offense.”

Her parents, Timmy and Terry Grimsley, are both very proud of her success both on and off the field. “She has proved that dreams can come true if you work hard and believe in yourself,” they said. “We love and support her and look forward to the years to come.”

In addition to softball, Grimsley also plays football for the Wildcats. “I was a part of the team last year when we won the state championship,” she said. “It was very exciting!

“I played basketball the past five years,” she added, “however, at the time, I do not plan on playing this year. My concentration will be on softball.”

“I know that I will have to study hard and work hard,” she said, “but if I belive in myself, I can be successful.”

Both Lady Wildcats said they will have fond memories of their time at Dillon, in particular their trip to the state championship in 2012. The Lady Wildcats beat Hanahan twice that year to claim the lower state title. Last season, the Wildcats made it to the lower state game but fell to Waccamaw.

Dillon’s Head Softball Coach Shirl Carter said she was proud of both her players.

“Shayna and Tara have had a great impact on the success of our softball program for the past five years,” she said. “I feel belseed to have had the opportunity to watch them grow as students, athletes, and young women.

“They both are versatile players who have the drive and dedication to succeed at the next level. I am looking forward to the upcoming season and to watching them play collegiately.”

Photos by Johnnie Daniels/THE DILLON HERALD. Click images below to view at full size!