Emily Sampson Signs to Play Softball at Columbia International University
Laurinburg, NC — Scotland High School senior Emily Sampson officially signed her commitment to play softball at Columbia International University (CIU) during a ceremony held on Monday afternoon. This significant event took place in the Scotland High School media center, marking an important milestone in Sampson’s athletic career.
A Promising Start
Emily Sampson’s journey as a student-athlete is noteworthy. During her freshman year on the junior varsity team, she displayed potential with a solid performance. In 10 games on the varsity team last season, Sampson logged two hits, two runs, and one RBI, also managing to draw a walk. On the mound, she demonstrated her capabilities with a commendable ERA of 3.50 and recorded five strikeouts against just one walk over four innings of pitching.
Team Accomplishments
Under the leadership of their coaching staff, the Scots had a remarkable season last year, finishing with a record of 19-2. They dominated their conference, going 12-0 against opponents. The team achieved a staggering run differential of +179, which showcases their offensive and defensive strengths. They earned the prestigious No. 1 seed in the east region of the 3A NCHSAA state playoffs. Although they won their first-round match convincingly against Swansboro, they faced a narrow defeat to Havelock in the second round.
A Bright Future
Emily’s decision to sign with Columbia International University marks the beginning of a new chapter in her athletic journey. CIU is known for its strong collegiate softball program, providing an opportunity for Sampson to further her academic and athletic career after her graduation at the end of the 2024-25 school year.
Current Season Ahead
The Scots are poised to start their current season on February 26, when they travel to Dunn to face off against Midway, a team they did not encounter last year. This match is highly anticipated as it will set the tone for the season and provide both a challenge and an opportunity for growth.
Celebrating Achievements
The signing ceremony was attended by several of Sampson’s teammates, who came to show their support. Heather Morris, head coach of the Scotland softball team, expressed pride in Emily’s accomplishments and emphasized her growth as a player. “Emily has worked very hard, and this is a well-deserved opportunity for her,” Morris said. “We are excited to see her continue to develop her skills at CIU.”
Conclusion
Emily Sampson’s commitment to Columbia International University is not only a testament to her talent and dedication but also sets an inspiring example for her peers and teammates. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Sampson and the Scots as they strive for success on and off the field. Congratulations to Emily and to the Scotland High School community for supporting her on this journey!
