Thomas signs three new Hokies to NLIs

The trio will join a young and talented squad in 2018-19

November 9, 2017

BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech softball head coach Scot Thomas has announced the signings of three student-athletes that will join the Hokies in the fall of 2018.

“Although this is a small class it’s an impactful one,” Thomas said. “Kelsey Bennett, Jayme Bailey and Meredith Slaw all have tremendous upside and are solid offensively. This group makes me even more excited for the future of our program. Additionally, we’ll have some nice walk-on potential to add to the mix as well."

Jayme Bailey
Utility - R/R
Hurricane, W. Va.
Hurricane HS
Beverly Bandits

Three-year letterwinner entering her senior season at Hurricane HS … 2015 Kanawha Valley Freshman of the Year … Three-time first-team all-state (2015-17) … Three-time state champion (2015-17) … 16U PGF national champion … 16U Triple Crown national champion.

Coach Thomas on Bailey

“Jayme is the type of kid that every time she swings the bat she is looking to do damage and I like that completive edge in her. She can play infield, outfield, wherever we ask and she’s going to be solid no matter what. She brings a level of intensity that you really like and she’s not going to be intimidated by anybody. We’re really excited about her.”

Kelsey Bennett
IF - R/R
Buford, Ga.
Buford HS
Georgia Elite

Four-year letterwinner at Buford HS … Three-time state champion (2015-17) … First-team all-county … First-team all-state … GAD All-Star and first-team … Two-time Under Armour All-American.

Coach Thomas on Bennett

“Kelsey Bennet is a tremendous player that has a lot of skills in various areas. She’s going to be a solid defensive player and she’s come on as a big-time hitter in the state of Georgia. We’re really excited about her and I think she’s really risen her game from being a really good recruit to a great one.”

Meredith Slaw
IF - L/R
Warsaw, Va.
Rappahannock HS
Hanover Hornets

Three-time Conference 43 first-team all-conference (2015-17) … 2015 second-team all-region … 2016 second-team all-state … 2016 second team south-region … Two-time Conference 43 Player of the Year (2016-17) … Two-time first-team all-region (2016-17) … 2017 1A first-team all-state … 2017 first-team All-American.

Coach Thomas on Slaw

“Meredith is a great lefty hitter, can drive to either gap, and we can see her playing first base or third base here. She’s kind of a hidden commodity in my opinion. I think she’s going to do a great job and could be a good power hitter for us down the road and maybe even earlier. She has a lot of upside and power.”

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