Lady Tiger captains sign scholarships

Full scholarshipsnthat is what two Greenville High School seniors signed on Monday, in the presence, and with the blessings of their mothers.

SaRhonda Hawkins signed to be a two-sport athlete at Southern Union Community College, in Wadley.

Hawkins, a five foot-eight inch tall guard and forward on the court, played basketball for Greenville in all four years of high school.

Averaging 9.7 points per game this year, Hawkins was the team leader in points, and also defense, averaging 6.1 rebounds per game.

"SaRhonda will be a two-sport athlete at Southern Union," said Head Coach Leslie Rowls. "She excels both on the softball diamond, and the basketball court."

Rowls said Hawkins was very adaptable to the situation at-hand.

"SaRhonda is a very versatile playershe has the heart and dedication that every coach dreams of," Rowls said. "I believe Southern Union got a steal in SaRhonda-she has so much potential as a player, to go along with being a respected person."

Amy Kirkland, assistant coach at Southern Union, came to Greenville to personally deliver Hawkins' papers.

"SaRhonda is a hard worker, and she will be an excellent addition to our program," said Kirkland. "We are extremely happy to have her for both basketball and softball, and Head Coach Janet Sparks is eagerly looking forward to working with her."

Also signing Monday was Amanda Dunklin, who will be attending Snead State Community College, located in Boaz.

Dunklin, the six foot one center, also played at Greenville High for four years.

"Snead is very excited about adding Amanda to their roster-they are looking forward to her making an immediate impact with their team," said Rowls.

"I am really excited to have two college signees during my first year as head coach here at Greenville," said Rowls. "I knew these girls would have the opportunity to play college basketball the very first time I saw them play."

Rowls said she had the opportunity to get to know the pair very well during the season.

"We became very close this year, and I am pleased that they got a shot at what so many high school athletes can only dream for."

Although quiet, Rowls said Dunklin has what it takes.

"Amanda is very quiet, but she has the tenacity to get the job done on the court," she said. "Amanda averaged 8.5 points per game, and 9.7 rebounds each game," "I expect her stats will excel once she learns the college game," Rowls said.

Rowls said she has only one regret.

"I regret that I only had the opportunity to coach these girls for one year," she said. "But I am sure they will both succeed in fulfilling their objectives."

Coach Terry Moore, athletic director at Greenville High School was full of praise for the coach and her players.

"Coach Rowls and these ladies did an outstanding job this year," Moore said. "When players get post-season action, it will always be a win-win' situation-accolades are always a plus to put the program on the map."

Moore said he too has enjoyed working with the pair of captains.

"I am looking forward to keeping in touch with Amanda and SaRhonda, no matter where I am. I am also excited for the girls that will still remain to play next year-Leslie (Rowls) has a great program."