Standout softball player Maddie Houlihan became the first member of the junior class to sign her letter of intention when she announced her commitment to the University of Minnesota for Softball. Houlihan who has been playing softball since the age of six, made varsity as a seventh grader and was named one of the three captains for this year’s team.

Houlihan had offers from many other schools including the University of Minnesota Duluth, Wisconsin, multiple Dakota schools, and other small midwest schools; however, the decision between the schools wasn’t difficult considering that going to the University of Minnesota had always been a dream of Houlihan’s.

“I have always wanted to play for the U, and the school is a very good school and the coaches there are amazing” said Houlihan.

When Houlihan was taken on a tour around the University, she met many of the players and was introduced to the coaching staff. “They are really motivated and hard working and I’m excited to be around that.” Houlihan said.

Houlihan is the program’s career leader in hits (149) and runs scored (106), and career stolen bases (109) and was named a member of the Star Tribune All-Metro First Team last year.