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Celina senior Paiton Rhodes, seated center, will attend the University of Saint Francis and play softball for the Cougars.
CELINA - The nursing program at the University of Saint Francis was the main reason for Paiton Rhodes' college decision.
But getting the opportunity to play softball for the NAIA program in Fort Wayne was a nice bonus.
The Celina catcher made her commitment to the Cougars official on Monday.
"When I was looking for a college, I was looking go to a place that had the best opportunities, academically first, then softball," said Rhodes. "I saw that Saint Francis was No. 2 in Indiana for nursing. That was a big yes for me. Plus they have a competitive softball program I was looking for.
"Nursing has always been a big goal of mine. I feel like helping people out in that way. A medical field has always been a dream of mine."
The Cougars went 29-21 last season and 20-16 in the Crossroads League, losing to Indiana Wesleyan in the elimination bracket final.
"I love the program is led by coaches with experience (head coach Ryan Bolyn has been there for 20 seasons)," said Rhodes. "They have a plan for students that have busy academic schedules. They have plans for everyone."
Rhodes caught all 155 innings for the Bulldogs last spring in helping the team to a 19-4 record and Western Buckeye League championship. Rhodes batted .342 with five doubles, 14 runs scored and 18 runs batted in while allowing just eight passed balls in 155 innings. Rhodes earned third team All-WBL honors last spring.
"I feel the big thing I've learned here (at Celina) is leadership," said Rhodes. "My coaches have always taught me that leadership goes a long way, especially in the position I play behind the plate. That takes a big role."
