News

The Mount Vernon Nazarene College women's fastpitch softball team has added depth to its infield with the signing of Danielle Taylor for the 2003 season.

Taylor, a native of Coshocton, Ohio, played second base, third base, and shortstop during her four-year varsity career for River View High School. As a senior, she batted a team-leading .473 with six doubles, two triples, one home run, 24 runs scored, 23 runs batted in, and six stolen bases in 26 games. For her efforts, Taylor was named to the Muskingum Valley League First Team and the Eastern District First Team as well as the All-Ohio Second Team. River View won both sectional and district titles in 2002.

"We are pleased to have Dani joining our program next year," said MVNC head coach Jeana Howald. "She will compete for time at all of our infield positions. Her versatility will give us a lot of depth on the infield and allow us to try several different defensive alignments. Dani is also a good hitter and finished her high school career with a great season at the plate."

In addition to playing softball, Taylor was a three-year varsity basketball player and a member of the 2001-2002 MVL championship team that also won sectional and district titles. She also belonged to the Leo Club and the Lettermen Club.

"There are several reasons why I chose MVNC," said Taylor of her college choice. "It is a small and friendly campus that is close to my hometown. It also has a good Education program."

MVNC finished the 2002 campaign with a 25-19 overall record as the Lady Cougars won 11 of their final 13 games of the season. The team also posted a 16-12 mark in the American Mideast Conference to earn a seventh-place finish. In addition, MVNC finished in a tie for fifth place at the National Christian College Athletic Association National Tournament out of ten teams.