KEVIN NARRO | Valley Morning Star
RIO HONDO — The Rio Hondo Lady Bobcats softball program has risen to new heights and has produced a hand full of athletes that have gone on to play at the college level. On Tuesday, senior outfielder Bianca Cruz joined that list by signing her letter of intent to play softball at Prairie View A&M University.
With the signing, Cruz becomes the first female athlete from Rio Hondo to sign a letter of intent at a Division 1 program. Cruz also plans to major in criminology. Prairie View A&M is a part of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
“I’m speechless, I have worked so hard since my freshman year. I remember schools didn’t want to look at me because I was overweight. I used that as motivation to get better and it’s all paying off. My message to the younger girls is to work hard, don’t give up and dreams will come true.”
Cruz had drawn interest from other programs from across the state, but found Prairie View A&M as a perfect fit both in the classroom and on the field with an opportunity to compete at a Division 1 program.
“It’s been very heart wrenching for me,” Cruz said. “I had been applying at different schools, checking my e mail’s to see if I had any offers and for me to find a school and commit just takes a load of pressure off of me. I’m excited and blessed that I have this chance to compete at the college level. I did draw interest from other schools and I liked them, but one of the reasons I chose Prairie View was because of the scenery, it’s a beautiful campus and they really focus on academics.”
Cruz is preparing for her senior season where she has been on the varsity her first three years and has been a force on the field and at the plate.
The southpaw is fresh off a strong junior year where she bated over .500 and collected over 50 hits and RBIs while bating at the top of the Rio Hondo order. Cruz was also a key factor in their latest playoff run and a part of four straight district titles.
“I want the season to come and then I don’t want it to come. It’s one of those things were you just don’t want it to end. I’m excited for my last year and yes, all good things come to an end but I’m blessed to be a part of this program. Right now I’m focused on my school work and continuing to work in the batting cages.”