SACO — Jenica Botting has been working hard over the past several years to get to this point.
The Thornton Academy senior dreamed of having a chance to compete at the college level — and on Tuesday morning all of her effort paid off.
Botting signed her National Letter of Intent to play softball for Saint Michael’s College during a signing ceremony at Thornton Academy.
“I am really excited. It’s just been a complete dream to be able to sit down and sign the letter,” said Botting.
When Botting stepped on campus, she realized Saint Michael’s was the perfect fit.
“It was unbelievable. I haven’t been on many college tours and this college was beautiful and right next to Burlington, Vermont. It felt like high school. It felt like TA and I know the transition is definitely going to be easier,” said Botting. “The girls, the team and the coaching staff I loved them so much. They were so welcoming into the team. I met them at a fall ball tournament not too long ago and within five weeks, I decided, I would love to go to Saint Michaels college because everybody there is fantastic and the school is wonderful.”
TA head field hockey coach Lori Smith revealed that Botting earned her spot at Saint Michael’s on and off the field.
“(Jenica’s) quick, strong and determined. Her work ethic and personal qualities are what set her apart on the field and off. She’s a very caring and compassionate individual,” said Smith.
Thornton softball coach John Provost believes that Botting’s tireless work ethic is one reason she was able to get to this point.
“Jenica is one of the hardest working athletes that I have work with in my 11 years of coaching varsity softball. She never takes a day off. She leads by example. Jenica is relentless as a player and wants to be on the field at all times,” said Provost in a prepared speech. “She’ll graduate from TA as one of the best hitters in the history of the school. Her career batting average is over .500 in her three years as a varsity player that certainly sets her apart.”
Provost imagines that Botting will be the perfect addition to the Division II program.
“Jenica Botting with be a great asset to the Saint Michael’s school softball program. She will figure out what she has to do to be successful and will go about getting it done. No one will out work her,” said Provost.
The TA standout will be ready to hit the ground running when she gets to Saint Michael’s next year.
“I’m looking forward to bettering the program and giving my all to coach (Nick) Goodreau,” said Botting.
— Sports Writer Sienna Barstow can be reached atsbarstow@journaltribune.com or at 780-9018. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.

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