DeSoto Central seniors commit to college softball programs

Photo: Lacey Frey, Katelyn Short, Darby Smith, Colby Young were celebrated for signing college softball commitments Monday evening. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)

SOUTHAVEN, Miss. — Four senior softball players from DeSoto Central High School have officially committed to continue their careers at the collegiate level, marking a milestone for the Jaguars’ program.

Colby Young signed with Itawamba Community College, while teammates Katelyn Short and Lacey Frey both committed to Mississippi University for Women. Darby Smith will join Meridian Community College’s program.

Head coach Harley Bumpous, who has guided the group since their freshman year, said the seniors represent the “heart and core” of DeSoto Central softball.

“They have been DeSoto Central softball for me for a long time,” Bumpous said. “They are the heart and core of this team. They were freshmen when I came here, so I’ve truly gotten to see them grow over the last four years. They are hard workers who set the tone and helped build this culture.”

Individual Player Highlights

• Colby Young (Itawamba CC)

“Colby’s a dog. She wants the ball in her hand at all times,” Bumpous said. “Even in tough situations, she wants to be out there. Coach Carson and Coach Monson are getting a really good one.”

• Katelyn Short (Mississippi University for Women)

“She’s kind of bounced around the past few years, but this past year she really excelled at shortstop,” Bumpous said. “She wants the ball every single time. She’ll dive, make the big play, and then come up with a big-time hit.”

• Lacey Frey (Mississippi University for Women)

“Lacey is a very quiet leader, but her skills stand out,” Bumpous said. “She is a phenomenal player, a very great outfielder with a great arm. The W is very lucky to get her.”

• Darby Smith (Meridian CC)

“Darby held down second base for us this past year,” Bumpous said. “Her and Katelyn almost tied the record for double plays in DeSoto Central history. She’s a little girl with a big, big bat. She’s been everywhere in the lineup — leadoff, two-hole, four-hole — and she’s a really great player.”

Looking Ahead

All four seniors had multiple opportunities before making their final decisions. Bumpous believes each athlete found the right fit.

“I think they’ll all excel no matter where they go,” she said. “They chose what was best for them, and I couldn’t be more proud.”