April 19, 2011

Coach Ryan Jacobs has announced the addition of another member to the 2011 class for the Northern Iowa softball squad.

Kirkwood Community College sophomore utility player Melissa Walls has declared her intentions to continue her softball career for the Panthers next season.

Walls has been a player coach Jacobs has been keeping close tabs on since her high school days, where she was a two-time state champion. "Melissa has been a player we have watched grow from her days at Clear Creek Amana High School and early college years at Kirkwood Community College," Jacobs stated. "Both schools are outstanding, credible programs that are known for producing great softball players."

As a freshman for Kirkwood, Walls put up big numbers offensively. She had 73 hits on the season en route to a .395 average. Walls will bring plenty of speed to the Panther lineup; speed that helped her go a perfect 21 for 21 in stolen base attempts, along with 14 doubles, and three triples in 2010. She also contributed 57 runs scored, and 31 RBI.

Walls has only increased her production in her sophomore campaign for the Eagles. Half way through the 2011 season, she held a .398 average, 42 RBI, 10 doubles, and four home runs.

Melissa plays shortstop for Kirkwood, but the Panthers see her as someone who will be able to fill a number of needs. "Mel is a great athlete and very versatile on the field. We are looking for her to be able to help us in the outfield and infield next season. Not only will she help us defensively, but she brings a very solid, consistent bat into our lineup."