News Features

UHS Standout To Play Softball At LSSC

    Umatilla High School senior Mittie O’Brien has formalized her post-high school plans. The multi-sport athlete on Thursday, November 21, signed a scholarship offer to play softball next year at Lake Sumter State College.
   The ceremony was held in the UHS auditorium in front of friends, family, and a large contingent of students.
   “It’s been a long and hard journey,” O’Brien said during the ceremony, sending out appreciation to her parents, coaches, and God during her short speech.
   Also a member of the Key Club, National Honor Society, and the Student Government Association, O’Brien was celebrated as a well-rounded student who also excels in sports.
   Describing a 'truly exceptional student-athlete, UHS softball coach Jessica Meier applauded O'Brien's success. "You deserve every bit of this moment."
   “Mittie has earned her place as one of the most well-rounded and accomplished student-athletes in the region,” Meier wrote in a release,” excelling in four sports—softball, volleyball, basketball, and weightlifting—she has garnered numerous accolades throughout her high school career. In basketball, she was named Defensive Player of the Year as a sophomore. In volleyball, she recorded the most blocks this season. She advanced to regionals last year in weightlifting and has been named MVP of the softball team for three consecutive years.
     “Mittie’s leadership has been equally impressive. She served on the Leadership Committee for the softball team last year and currently holds the title of Student Government Association President. Her commitment to service and community engagement is reflected in her active roles in Key Club, the National Honor Society, and Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT).
     “In addition to her athletic and extracurricular achievements, Mittie has excelled academically. She is set to graduate with both her AICE diploma and an Associate of Arts degree, a rare accomplishment that highlights her exceptional dedication to her education. Mittie has maintained a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a remarkable 5.2 weighted GPA, demonstrating her ability to balance the demands of a rigorous academic and athletic schedule.”