Straughn’s Derriunna Gantt signed a scholarship on Wednesday morning to play softball next season for the Faulkner State Lady Sun Chiefs in Bay Minette.

The Straughn senior has been a pivotal part of every team on which she has played.

During her junior season, Gantt helped lead the Lady Tigers to the Super Regionals in softball and basketball and to the State tournament for volleyball.

“I’m excited about the softball life and going to college,” Gantt said. “I’ve been working at softball since I was 5-years-old and this is just a dream come true. I want to keep striving for success and be the person that my mother has raised me to be. Always helping others and always keeping God first no matter the situation.”

Gantt’s future college coach said she is also excited about Gantt’s signing.

“I knew about Derriunna from travel ball and she is just a really fun girl,” Sun Chiefs’ head softball coach Mallory Radwitch said. “She brings a lot of personality that will really help the team. She also can pitch and play third base. She is a great hitter as well and that is something I look for.”

Gantt’s senior season at Straughn ended after she tore her ACL in December during a basketball game.

The injury happened during a Christmas basketball tournament the Lady Tigers were playing in UMS-Wright.

Gantt’s mother said that she will undergo surgery next week and she will be on a six-month recovery period.

Gantt said that she will no doubt be ready to go by the time fall softball rolls around.