Righetti High School’s Sophia Laurel is taking her athletic and academic talents to Waldorf University, where she is receiving an athletic scholarship, and will play on the women’s basketball team.
Laurel signed a national letter of intent on Monday night. and will attend Waldorf in Forest City, Iowa.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to continue playing basketball at the collegiate level,’’ Laurel said. “I’m very thankful to all my coaches, friends and family for supporting me throughout my journey.’’
“I am so proud of the hard work that Sophia has put forth throughout her career at Righetti,’’ said Desiree Hitch, Warrior Varsity Girls Basketball coach. “I know she will continue her success at Waldorf University.
“She is the type of player that every coach loves. She works hard, listens, and is a selfless teammate. I am very proud of her.’’
Laurel is one of a number athletes Hitch has helped guide to the next level since the start of her career in 2015-16. Hitch played four years of Warrior varsity basketball and graduated from Righetti in 2008. Then, she accepted a full ride to play basketball for Cal State LA.
“If my players want to play in college, I do everything that I can to help them,’’ Hitch said. “This includes reaching out to college coaches, creating highlight films for my players, and assisting them in sending e-mails to college coaches.
“Righetti High School has had more girls continue their basketball career in college than any other local high school.”
In eight seasons, the Righetti Girls Basketball program has accomplished five league championships, four state tournament appearances, and a CIF Division 1 Central Section Championship.
Righetti High School girls who have continued their athletic careers in college include:
Courtney Barba: Eastern Nazarene College
Kendall Bagby: Allan Hancock College
Maya Armenta: Westcliff University
Danita Estorga: Biola University
Ashley Reynoso: Cal State Monterey Bay
Zane Sheckherd: Sonoma State University
Alijah Paquet: Allan Hancock College
Malia Cabigon: Eastern Arizona
Paityn Persson: Emerson College
Alexandria Paquet: Allan Hancock College
Madisyn Cutliff: Cal State Monterey Bay
Sophia Laurel: Waldorf University