Woodruff, Bryant celebrate collegiate softball scholarships
Photo: From left, assistant coach Matt Duggin, Makenlee Bryant, Ada Woodruff, and head coach Grace Anne Ferguson. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)
SOUTHAVEN, Miss. – The Northpoint Christian School softball program celebrated a significant milestone as two senior standouts, Ada Woodruff and Makenlee Bryant, have signed letters of intent to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level.
Woodruff signed with Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, while Bryant signed with Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis, Arkansas.
Northpoint head coach Grace Anne Ferguson praised the duo, emphasizing their impact on the Lady Trojans program, which finished last season with a 23-7 overall record and an 8-0 run in district play.
“I am truly humbled that the Lord has gifted me the time and opportunity to be able to be a small part of their story,” Ferguson said. “These two have certainly been a part of mine, and I am thankful for how they will leave Northpoint Softball better than they found it.”
Woodruff, a pitcher who also plays first and third base, was named the team and district MVP following her junior season. She posted a dominant performance at the plate with a .526 batting average, .583 on-base percentage, 50 hits, and six home runs. In the circle, she recorded 89 strikeouts with a 4.52 ERA.
Ferguson described Woodruff as a “deep thinker” and a compassionate leader who handles high-pressure situations with wisdom.
“Her athletic skills are amazing, her determination is unwavering, and she does not let others stand in her way,” Ferguson noted. “She is more than just the one that you want on the mound or at the plate, and that is exactly what will make her successful throughout the rest of her life.”
Regarding Woodruff’s commitment to Delta State, Ferguson noted that the university is a strong fit for the standout utility player. “I have some friends that have gone there, and they all loved it, and I know that she’ll love it too,” Ferguson said.
Bryant, an outfielder known for her reliability and poise, will join an emerging program at ASU Mid-South. During her junior campaign, she recorded a .432 on-base percentage and drove in 20 runs, serving as a consistent presence in the lineup.
“Makenlee is a quiet leader,” Ferguson said. “She leads the team with poise, kindness, careful words, and with integrity. She loves harmony and will often let the desires of others come before her own.”
Ferguson highlighted Bryant’s work ethic and adaptability as key factors in her recruitment to play at the next level. Bryant will have the unique opportunity to help build the foundation of the program at ASU Mid-South.
“She is very, very excited to go over there and kind of build and start their program for them,” Ferguson added. “She’ll be a great asset.”
