Photo courtesy of Rio Grande

Former Clay softball standout Jordan Jenkins agrees to play softball at Rio Grande.

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Rio Grande Sports Information

PORTSMOUTH — University of Rio Grande head softball coach Kristen Bradshaw has announced the signing of Clay High standout Jordan Jenkins for the 2013 season.

Jenkins, a pitcher/first baseman, helped the Lady Panthers to a 19-8 finish this spring, following a 5-4 loss to Crooksville in the Division IV Southeast District semifinals.

Jenkins posted an 11-2 record in the circle, en route to earning a selection to the All-Southern Ohio Conference first team. She was also named the league’s Pitcher of the Year and was a second team All-District honoree.

“I’m extremely excited to sign with Rio,” said Jenkins. “It’s been a goal of mine to play college softball and I’m glad to know I’m getting that chance.”

Jenkins, who had two of her team’s four hits and scored two of its four runs in the season-ending loss, was also an All-SOC first team pick as a junior, in addition to being the league’s Co-Player of the Year. She also was a first team All-District selection in 2011.

“I’m thrilled to add Jordan to our roster for next season,” Bradshaw said. “She’s an outstanding athlete who can pitch and play almost every position on the field. She’ll also be a great bat to add to our lineup.”

Jenkins, who plans to major in Early Childhood Education, chose the RedStorm after also garnering interest from both Shawnee State University and Wilmington College.

“When I went on my visit to Rio, I felt something that I didn’t feel at the other colleges,” Jenkins said. “I enjoyed all of the staff that I got the chance to meet and I couldn’t wait to come back.”

Bradshaw, who also hails from Portsmouth, has tracked Jenkins’ progress for some time now.

“I’ve watched Jordan play for quite a few years now and I’m so excited for her to be a part of the RedStorm softball program,” she said.

Jenkins added that she’s looking forward to getting her collegiate career underway.

“I’m most excited about starting this new chapter in my life,” she said. “I always give everything I have. I’m a team player and I will work to reach my highest potential. I want to thank coach Bradshaw and the coaching staff for giving me this opportunity. I’m looking forward to playing with the team this coming season.”

Jenkins is the daughter of Michelle Russell and Joey Kayser of Portsmouth.