Softball Announces Sophomore Class Matriculation

Glendora, CA - The Citrus College Softball team has announced its 2016 matriculating class. Sophomore Autumn Bartholomy has accepted a scholarship offer from NAIA Kansas Wesleyan University, while sophomore Haley Gomez and Makaele Moore will play next season at NCAA DIII University of La Verne.

"I chose to continue my career at Kansas Wesleyan experience something outside of California, while getting best education possible. They provide all of that for me. They have a beautiful campus, with a friendly student population, all while giving me an opportunity to continue playing. I couldn't be more excited," Bartholomy said. "Citrus has had a huge impact on my life. Going to Cirtus for two years really opened doors for new opportunities and decisions. I had such a great support system at Citrus and that helped with my decision. It was especially positive to have [Head] Coach [Jackie] Boxley, who was constantly there for me and opened my eyes to trying new things and getting out of my comfort zone."

Bartholomy was a key contributor for the Owls over the past two seasons, appearing in 82 of a possible 83 games in that span. Bartholomy posted a career average of .307, to go along with nine doubles, four home runs, 55 RBIs, and 30 runs scored. Bartholomy also spent a significant amount of time in the circle for Citrus, especially during her sophomore campaign, going 10-13, with a pair of saves, a 3.79 career ERA, and 60 career strikeouts. Bartholomy was a two-time 2nd-team All-WSC Blue selection.

"I chose La Verne because they have an amazing communications program and softball team. They won their conference last season, and I'm excited to try and help them do it again," Gomez said. "Citrus gave me the opportunity to continue to play the sport I love. I give a lot of credit to the softball coaching staff for teaching me a lot. I wouldn't be where I am today, without this past season."

Gomez, who was a transfer to Citrus this past season, was a standout in the leadoff spot hitting .378 (the third highest average on the team), with 31 runs scored, six doubles, two triples, six home runs, and 17 RBIs. Gomez earned 1st-team All-WSC Blue honors for her efforts.

"I made the decision to go to La Verne because they have a great academic program, where I can continue my education, all the while getting a chance of continuing my dream of playing college softball," Moore said. "Citrus helped play a huge role in making this happen. They did everything they could to make sure that I was successful, from helping me get the classes I needed, to checking up on me in those classes to make sure that I would be able to graduate on time. The staff at Citrus really care for their students and want to help at any time."

Another transfer to Citrus in 2016, Moore came up big down the stretch for Citrus in the circle. Moore made 28 total appearances on the season, going 13-12 with a 3.56 ERA, and 74 total K's. In WSC Blue play, Moore went 10-5, with a 2.42 ERA, and 54 strikeouts. More was a 1st-team All-WSC Blue selection at the end of the year.

In addition to the three players who will continue their playing and academic careers at four-year schools, sophomore Kali Smith, who hit .345 with 28 runs scored and 19 RBIs as a sophomore for the Owls, will continue her education at California State University, Channel Island, but will not play softball.

"We are proud of these four young women for their achievements and accomplishments at Citrus, and for putting themselves in a position to continue their educational careers," said Citrus College Head Coach Jackie Boxley. "I am excited to see their continued growth during the next phase of their lives, and know that they will do what it takes to continue to be successful."