After playing her whole life, senior Claire Ouellette is thrilled to continue her softball career at Goshen College.

Ouellette signed her National Letter of Intent to play with the Maple Leafs‘ softball team Tuesday, Dec. 10.

The Maple Leafs play in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

Ouellette will miss the bonds she and her coaches formed. Her new coaches remind her of the ones she previously had.

“My coaches have impacted my life beyond words and I couldn’t thank them enough for that,” Ouellette said. “They (the Goshen coaches) remind me a lot of my high school coaches, and that’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to start playing there.”

In addition to continuing her athletics career, Ouellette wants to pursue a career in nursing.

Ouellette is excited about the atmosphere of Goshen College both on and off the field.

“When I went to visit the campus, it was everything that I’ve always wanted,” Ouellette said. “The coaches and the team also gave an example of something I want to be a part of.”

Junior Ally Sizemore is proud that Ouellette will play in college.

“I’m going to miss her but I don’t think I could be more proud of Claire and all she’s done,” Sizemore said. “She deserves this and every opportunity coming to her.”

Sizemore believes college athletics will make Ouellette an all-around better person.

“College softball will be a challenge but that’s what makes her work harder,” Sizemore said. “She’ll graduate a better person than she already is.”

Ouellette is excited for the new things the college environment brings.

“I’m most excited for the new beginning, meeting new people, and traveling.” Ouellette said.