Baker’s Ross earns scholarship
Ida Baker senior Jamie Ross, 17, has been playing softball since she was 4.
In recent years, she’s played approximately 100 games per year between high school and travel ball.
Needless to say, that dedication has been a key for Ross as she’s gradually improved each season.
Baker softball coach Morgan Klare said Ross brought that experience and steady leadership to the field last season for the Bulldogs, after playing for Mariner her freshman and sophomore years.
“She’s kind of like a solid rock,” Klare said. “She came right in and became a leader for us.”
Ross still has one more season to go at Baker, in the spring, but she has made her college decision. A ceremony was held Wednesday at Baker, recognizing Ross, who will continue her softball career at Francis Marion University in Florence, S.C.
Francis Marion is one of the top Division II programs, ranking fifth in the nation and reaching the NCAA regionals last year.
“It’s in a really nice area,” Ross said of Florence, which is located 45 miles from Myrtle Beach. “I also liked how the coaches were really nice and my teammates were great. They have fun but still they know when to be serious on the softball field.”
As a member of the Bulldogs last season, Ross fit in immediately and helped the team to a 23-7 record and a berth in the Class 5A regional quarterfinals.
She played third base and finished with a .359 batting average.
The versatile Ross said she likely will play shortstop or catcher in college.
She was joined at Wednesday’s signing ceremony by her parents, Jim and Gina; her sister, Alexis; and several of her softball teammates and coaches.
Klare said Ross is one of the players who sets the tone both in practice and in difficult game situations.
“Even if we’re down, she always maintains a positive attitude,” Klare said. “She’s ready to pump up the teammate next to her that needs some extra encouragement.”
Both on and off the softball field, Ross is known for hard work and outstanding conditioning. Aside from working out in the gym, she participates in cross country and ROTC at Baker.
Ross, who also excels in the classroom, plans to major in biology and pursue a career in physical therapy.