Union County High School senior Megan Russell signed a national letter of intent to play softball for North Greenville University Tuesday. Russell — a sure-handed second baseman for the Lady Jackets’ softball team — said her decision to play for North Greenville came down to one thing.

“I chose North Greenville because it is a Christian school,” Russell said.

Russell plans to major in sports management and minor in Christian studies while playing for the North Greenville Crusaders.

She was accompanied at the signing by her parents, — Renee and Phillip Russell — grandparents, – Judy and Donnie Johnson — and UCHS head softball coach Danny Gault, former coaches and mentors who helped her along the way to this pinnacle accomplishment.

As a junior for the Lady Jackets she finished with a .373 batting average, 17 RBIs, a 97-percent fielding percentage and was voted defensive player of the year for the Jackets.

Russell added that this accomplishment was a culmination of different people’s influence and help along the way. When asked what contributed to her success while at Union County High School she replied, “my parents, softball coaches and a lot of hard work.”

She also thanked and said this day was in memory of someone who had a big impact on her and who she wished could have been there for the signing.

“This day is in memory of Phillip Sullivan my first softball coach,” Megan added.

Russell and the Lady Jackets will look to win a state championship this year when the season begins in the spring.

More about Megan

Favorite Food: “Ribs”

Favorite Color: “Blue”

Car: “2003 Honda Civic”

Song last listened to: Chris Tomlin’s “I will rise”

Favorite thing to do with friends: “Going out at the movies”

Favorite thing to with family: “Camping at the beach”

Bats: Right

Throws: Right

Most influential person: “My grandmother Sybil Russell who is a cancer survivor and is very strong, determined, and never gives up.”