Streetman, Blackburn to play college softball

Peyton Streetman (middle) signing her letter alongside her parents Gina and Marty Streetman. Michelle

On Thursday morning, the Dr Wayne King Library at Howe High School was full of friends and the families of Erin Blackburn and Peyton Streetman who signed to play softball in college beyond their high school careers

Erin Blackburn verbally committed to the University of Central Arkansas as a freshman but made it official with her parents, Mendy and Shane Blackburn by her side

"I really loved the atmosphere at the college and I love the coaching staff It's really comfortable," said the senior shortstop Erin Blackburn of the Howe Lady Bulldogs

Blackburn, a four-year-starter, plans to major in physical therapy but says that could change

Streetman, also a four-year-starter, will have her fourth head coach in as many years this coming season But she is excited to be heading to North Central Texas College where Head Coach Van Hedrick is the only head coach the program has ever seen in its 17-year existence Streetman will reunite with former teammate Madisyn Hargrove who played there this past season

"It'll be super cool to play with Madisyn again," said Streetman "She said she loved it; so it made the decision all the better"

Streetman said the best thing about North Central is that it is close to home and has a small town feel that feels right

"Mom has waited for this day a long time," said Gina Streetman "I've watched this kid play ball all her life and now it's paid off I knew for sure her seventh grade year that she would be in this situation "