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Straughn High School senior Abbi Hataway will see her longtime softball wish come true after signing a National Letter of Intent with Enterprise State Community College Friday.

“I am able to take the next step in my education while playing ball. I’m excited to start a new chapter in my life of meeting new people and trying new things. I could not imagine myself going anywhere else besides ESCC. It’s always been a dream of mine to play for this college,” Hataway said.

She added that softball has always been a big part of her life. “I wanted to go far with softball as long as I could remember. It’s always been a dream of mine to play for college. I’m just really glad I have this opportunity to still pursue my softball career with the college that I choose.”

Hataway is grateful for all the coaches who have left their marks on her life throughout her career. “I will miss being a Straughn Tiger and having it represent the last part of my childhood. The coaches at Straughn are probably who I would miss the most. I learned that they always believed in me and always made the games and practices fun. They taught me to be a leader and the hard-working player I am today,” she said.

She started playing softball when she was five years old and has served as an infielder for the Lady Tigers playing third base.

“I knew I wanted to keep continuing my career when I made my first double play at the age of seven. I caught a line drive on the third base sideline and threw it to first base. That’s when I knew I wanted to play. The biggest highlight of my high school career was hitting my first home run my sophomore year, which ended up being a grand slam,” Hataway said.

She is the daughter of Louis and Wendy Hataway with a younger brother, Evan.

“I’ve had Abbi the last two years since I came home to Straughn. From the first day of practice, I could tell she was going to be a ballplayer who worked hard at everything she does. She is gritty and the one who dives and lays out for the ball. When you get in a situation where the bases are loaded and there are two outs, she would be the go-to hitter because she is going to fight until the very end. A lot of her character comes from how hard she works in the classroom, on the field, and on the basketball court. When she’s not working at a sport, she is working a job. She has been a pleasure to be around and has been a leader for us along with our other four seniors. Enterprise State will be a perfect fit for her and Coach Goodson. They have already hit it off during the tryout and the whole process. She will be good for their program,” SHS Head Coach Candace Tucker said.

A two-sport athlete for Straughn, Hataway thanked her loved ones for showing their support at basketball and softball games.

“I loved when my family came out and supported me because I would always hear them cheer for me in the stands. It felt like I played better when they were there. My biggest influence and role model is my mom because without her help and encouragement, I wouldn’t be the player I am today. I am excited to start my journey and see where things take me in this new chapter of my life and face the challenges that are ahead,” she said.

As she prepares to make the transition from being a Straughn Tiger, she embraces this opportunity to become an Enterprise State Boll Weevil.

“I am very excited about having Abbi next year. She will add to our infield depth and bring a consistent bat as well. Coach Tucker spoke very highly of her ability to lead and show passion for the game. I have known Coach for many years and always trust her opinion. Abbi will be a great addition to the 2022 class,” said ESCC Head Coach Clair Goodson.