Lacey Student Commits To Rutgers Softball Team

LACEY, NJ — A Lacey athlete is hitting the big-time but staying local. Lacey Township High School's Kailee Howard committed to the Rutgers softball team, the Scarlet Knights announced Wednesday.

The catcher batted .717 with 14 home runs as a junior last year. She earned First Team All-State, Asbury Park Press All-New Jersey First Team, The Press Of Atlantic City All-Star First Team and First Team All-Shore Conference.

"Kailee will be adding depth to our catching," coach Kristen Butler said in a statement. "She has a ton of power at the plate and we are excited to get her strength in the lineup."

As a sophomore, Howard made Third Team All-Shore, helping Lacey to the Ocean County Tournament of Champions. She hit .400 with 10 home runs that season.

She was also named Rookie of the Year and All-Shore Third Team after hitting .530 with six home runs as a freshman in 2017.

Howard is one of five athletes who signed their National Letters of Intent for the Rutgers softball team.

"I chose Rutgers because the school really makes me feel welcomed, like I am joining a family, and I fit right in," Howard said in a statement. "The different resources that students and student-athletes can use are amazing."

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