The high school softball season has just started, but when it’s over, a handful of Osceola High players will leave George Coffey Field knowing their playing careers will continue.
Six Lady Kowboys signed college scholarships at a ceremony just prior to the season.
It’s a list that includes nearly all of Coach Miranda Watford’s infield this year and two starting outfielders. They are: Nayeli Hernandez, second base, Polk State; Gabriela Avila, shortstop, Hillsborough Community College; Allyson Giuliano, first base, Domincian (N.Y.) University; Kayley Jones, catcher, St. Petersburg College; Veronica Fernandez, left field, Polk State; Jodee Matos, center field, Rollins College.
“This is what they’ve wanted and they’ve all put in the work,” Watford said. “They’ve played together for a long time. They’re going to catch on quickly at that next level, I have no doubt in their ability.
“Now it’s done and they can focus on this season. They all want to get to (the state tournament in Clermont).”
Between the OHS softball, football, volleyball and wrestling programs, nearly 20 Kowboys have already signed scholarships, along with about another dozen from other county schools — and both of those numbers will climb through the spring seasons in May. Signing Day is something that Osceola Athletic Director and wrestling coach Rick Tribit says is one of his favorite days.
“It’s always an awesome day, they come to your school so young, and they leave full-fledged grownups moving on to the next phase of their lives,” he said. “This day is about the parents who got them to all those practices and events all over the place.”
