SCC softball signs Ram quartet by Chris Siers, Sports Writer Yadkin Ripple
RIPPLE/Chris Siers Nichole Hutchens, Jessica White, Ashlee Handy, and Brittany White sign their letters of intent to play softball with Surry Community College. The four begin their senior season on Tuesday afternoon.slideshow Anytime an athlete has a chance to pursue athletics beyond high school, it's a big deal.

Throw in the chance to pursue that dream with four friends who have played together for years, and you’ve got something special.

Such an opportunity presented itself for Nichole Hutchens, Ashlee Handy, Brittany and Jessica White.

The four Rams have signed their letters of intent to play softball with Surry Community College.

“I’m so excited. We’re ready for a good year,” the four said simultaneously.

While the four began their search for a college separately, they came together and signed their letters last Friday afternoon.

When it came to choosing a school, the ability to play close to home and still have the experience of playing in a college atmosphere made a big impact on their decision.

“I didn’t want to go to a big college at first. I went to Surry and toured it. I went to the field and I knew that’s where I wanted to play,” Hutchens said.

“That was my same reaction when we toured the school, just knowing we could play closer and parents could come. And playing with friends,” Jessica said.

“Just knowing I’m going to be here, and the comfort of being home, and playing with them for two more years helped make the decision,” Handy said.

For Starmount Softball Coach Heather Courts Tysinger, the group has meant a lot both on and off the diamond.

“They’ve really had a big impact on us. They’ve done a really good job,” she said. “Its nice they will be close. I’m very excited for them, but very sad too because they are leaving.”

The bonds between coach and athlete go beyond the time on the diamond, according to Courts.

“I’ve been through a lot with these girls. They went with me to pick out my wedding dress, they’ve been with me while getting married, having my baby,” she said.

While Courts is sad to see the group move on, SCC Coach Amber Reid is thrilled to see a close-knit group sign with the Knights.

“I’m very excited. I feel like we have a lot of talent and a lot of diversity in this group. They bring a lot of depth and agility to our team,” Reid said.

While it will be a while before the four Rams suit up with the Knights, they still have one season left at Starmount.

During last season, the Rams were 27-6 overall on the season and finished fourth in the state.

However, finishing fourth left the team hungry for more, and this year the four hope to help lead Starmount all the way.

“Going to state last year has to be the best memory. We’re thinking about it this year,” the group said.

Read more: Yadkin Ripple - SCC softball signs Ram quartet