Moon Township, Pa. - Just weeks after the Robert Morris University softball team made an early exit from the 2009 NEC Tournament, head coach Craig Coleman, M.D., announced today that freshmen Britta Grafton (Hartstown, Pa., / Jamestown Area), Maritiza Jimenez (Vineland, N.J. / Vineland) and Jessica Tanigawa (Marysville, Wash. / Marysville-Pilchuck) have signed National Letters of Intent with the Colonials for the 2010 season.
"Our incoming freshmen have big shoes to fill," said Coleman. "We just lost a very talented senior class that led us both offensively and defensively. It will be a challenge for all of us to make up for that loss."
The Colonials will begin their rebuilding process as soon as the fall semester begins. The new additions are expected to contribute right away.
Grafton, from Jamestown, Pa., is a strong player that can take on multiple positions. "Her versatility and physical strength will be a definite asset to our team this year," said Coleman. "We are excited to try her in many positions."
Grafton is also a solid player on the offensive side of the ball. In her senior season at Jamestown Area High School, Grafton batted .571 with a .662 on-base percentage. She also added 16 runs and 18 RBI. For this performance Grafton earned a number of awards. She was named Region 5 first team shortstop as well as Region 5 Player of the Year. She was also named All-District 10 first team shortstop. Grafton's strength and defensive ability will make a direct impact on the Colonial team.
Jimenez is a hard-hitting third baseman from New Jersey, hitting for both average and power. During her senior season at Vineland Senior High School she batted an impressive .584. Jimenez also collected 45 hits, including 10 doubles, three triples, and three home runs. She finished the year with 30 RBI and 17 walks.
"Maritza will add some punch to our lineup, and we expect her to have an immediate impact on our infield," said Coleman. Academically, Jimenez is outstanding in the classroom. She is a true student-athlete that will add to the reputation that the softball team carries.
Tanigawa is coming to Robert Morris from Marysville, Wash. Defensively she is a solid outfielder, and at the plate she is running slapper with fabulous speed.
"We're excited Jessica has decided to come across the country to join the RMU family," said Coleman. "She will be an immediate asset with her blazing speed."
Tanigawa's skill level has earned her numerous awards in the Pacific Northwest. She was a four-year letter winner on her softball team. During her senior season she anchored her team as captain. She was also named to the All-Area and Wesco-North First Team's. Tanigawa also earned the Washington Interscholastic Athletic Association Cliff Giles award. This award is given in recognition of personal achievement in academics, sportsmanship, citizenship and participation, demonstrating that she is a well-rounded person. Tanigawa's speed and natural leadership skills will definitely help the 2010 squad.
As Robert Morris looks to improve on their 25-21 overall record from this past season, Grafton, Jimenez, and Tanigawa will add immediate help. They each bring something different to the table that will add depth to the Colonial lineup in numerous places. All three of these young ladies are not only good athletes but impressive students in the classroom, as well.
