Ella Ashley, a senior at Southwest Georgia Academy, has had an impressive six months, marked by significant athletic achievements including a softball state championship and scoring over a thousand points in basketball. Today, she took a major step forward in her athletics and academics by signing with Georgia Military College. Reflecting on her journey, Ashley expressed her excitement and gratitude for her experiences at SGA, highlighting her lifelong dream of playing college sports.
“It means a lot because I’ve worked so hard. As a little kid, I always wanted to play college ball, and I’m just really proud of myself. Ever since I was a kid, I could never have imagined my senior year going this good. It’s been incredible,” Ashley said, while also noting her reluctance to leave the school she has greatly cherished.
Meanwhile, Ashley’s fellow senior, Sawyer Franklin, will be heading to Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Franklin shared that although he didn’t initially realize his desire to continue playing sports at the collegiate level until a few years ago, he is now thankful for the opportunity. He emphasized the importance of the support from fans and the community during his journey.
Both athletes find comfort in their school choices, with Franklin seeking a location close to home and Ashley feeling that Georgia Military College mirrors the small-town values she has experienced at SGA.
As the Lady Warriors Basketball team stands strong with a record of 14-2, there is potential for an exciting playoff run ahead for Ashley, making her final high school season even more memorable.
This story encapsulates the dedication and determination of young athletes striving to achieve their dreams while reflecting the supportive community that fosters their growth. There’s a hopeful sentiment here as both Ashley and Franklin embark on new chapters in their athletic careers, paving the way for future successes.