It was a great day to be a Wolverine on Friday, as Quitman High School senior softball player, Madison Chaplin, put pen to paper and made her commitment official to play for Northwestern State University (NSU) in Natchitoches.
Flanked by parents Cherie and Scott Morgan and in front of a large throng of classmates and fellow Lady Wolverine softball players the signing took place in the Quitman High School Gymnasium. Chaplin chose NSU after making visits to several in state schools.
“The reason that I chose NSU is because I’ve been visiting there the past 2 years, and I feel that I’ve fallen in love more and more each time with the foundation they’re building there”, Chaplin said. “The coaches, the players, the atmosphere all in all makes it a great experience. They just got a new head coach a few months ago, and I’ve already fallen in love with her. I can’t wait to see where her and the entire team help take my future.”
Since stepping into the leadoff batter role as a freshman for QHS in 2021, Chaplin has been a key offensive catalyst, helping lead the Lady Wolverines to three straight district 2B championships and two LHSAA Division IV state tournaments.
“She’s a tremendous player” stated Quitman Head Coach, Justin Dodson. “From the time that she arrived here to today on her signing day, she has grown so much as not only a player, but as a person. She’s a true leader, she does things the right way, and it’s been unbelievable to see the positive steps she’s taken.”
A career .386 hitter, “Chappie” batted .453, scored 55 runs and drove in 31 more in 2023 to help lead Quitman to a 29-6 record and a Division IV state runner up finish.
“I definitely want to thank my grandfather, because without him none of this would be possible, and I would not have the ability that I have.” said Chaplin when asked who she wants to thank. “Also, my parents for always taking me to any games or camps that have helped me get to where I am today.”
Coach Dodson closed the ceremony by saying this, “Chappie’s a great player, an even better person, and she deserves every bit of this.”
