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News Release

UMBC SOFTBALL SIGNS TWO MARYLAND NJCAA ALL-STARS

6/25/2004


Amanda McGhee

Jessica Griffith

Baltimore, Md. – UMBC Softball Head Coach Joe French announced the signing of junior college all-stars Jessica Griffith (Anne Arundel CC) and Amanda McGhee (Hagerstown CC).

 

Griffith is a utility player who has caught and played third base, shortstop, and first base. She helped lead AACC to the NJCAA Division II National Championship in 2003 and to a fourth place finish in 2004. Over the two seasons, Griffith has maintained at least a .400 batting average while leading her team in doubles and RBI’s. “She is one of the core players in leading AACC to the National Championship last year,” said French. “A solid hitter with line drive power, she will provide us with versatility, as she can take on multiple positions.” Griffith’s accolades also include 2003 First Team All-Region, First Team NJCAA Division III All-American, Second Team MD JuCo, NFCA Diamond Catcher of the Year, and NJCAA Division III All-Tournament Team.

 

McGhee, a two-time NJCAA Division II Second Team All-American, has previously seen time as a centerfielder and catcher, but can play any field position. She has a career batting average of .535 with six homeruns, and has stolen 42 bases in 45 attempts. “McGhee has a very powerful arm with tremendous accuracy,” said French. “She is a total athlete with line drive power and will bring an aggressive style of play to our team, both offensively and defensively.” In addition, McGhee has received First Team All-Region and First Team Maryland JuCo during both years at Hagerstown.  

 

“These two talented players will bring leadership, hard work, and a wide range of softball skills to our program,” said French. “They are the type of athletes who will blend with our returning players and other newcomers to give us some quality play for the next two years.”

 

McGhee and Griffith with join fall signees Stevie Shore, Kali Shirk, Katie Jo Passero, and Dana Shepherd (Oakland Mills HS).