Aces' Harrell to play softball at Pitt Community

John A. Holmes High School’s Marley Harrell signed a letter of intent last week to play softball at Pitt Community College when she graduates in May.

“I’m signing up to play softball this spring,” Harrell said at a signing ceremony. “I’m going there right after I graduate. I’ll work here for a little bit, and then when it gets close to August, I’ll head over that way to start workouts for Pitt.”

Harrell said she hopes to transfer to the University of South Carolina after her first year at Pitt, where she hopes to major in sports medicine. She said she wants to pursue a career helping athletes, particularly those playing softball.

Bobby Swayne, coach of Harrell’s High Voltage travel ball team, said she is a vital team asset.

“Molly brings intensity to the team, and if anybody’s ever seen her play, you know she wants the best out of every player on the team,” he said.

J.P. Pippins, Harrell’s softball coach at Holmes, said she’s invaluable to the Aces.

“I had Molly for four years, four good years,” Pippin said. “We had a pretty good time here. We’ve been to the second round (of the playoffs) all three years and were looking to do the same this year. Somebody’s getting a good, good player.”

Harrell was delighted with both the signing ceremony and those who attended to show their support.

“This is big. I don’t really like a lot of attention, but I’m glad my friends and family can come together and support me,” she said.

The Holmes Aces were scheduled to play Ayden-Grifton at home on Tuesday in the first round of the 2A playoffs for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association State Championship.