BIC Thomas signs softball national letter of intent with Auburn-Montgomery

Buffalo Island Central two-sport star Karoline Thomas will continue her athletic career playing softball for last year's NAIA National Champion Auburn University-Montgomery Warhawks. Thomas inked a national letter of intent Thursday at the Mustang Athletic Complex in Monette.

Thomas has led BIC to four consecutive state tournament appearances, including the championship game her freshman season of 2012. Thomas, an outstanding catcher who has been moved to shortstop this year because of a nagging knee injury, also helped the Lady Mustangs to a state quarterfinal appearance in 2013 before leading BIC to a final four appearance last season.

"It's really cool that I'm getting to play for such a prestigious school as Auburn-Montgomery," Thomas said. "They were national champions a year ago and are ranked second in the country this season." Thomas, who chose the Warhawks over Arkansas Tech, Hendrix and Williams Baptist, will play either first base or outfield in college.

Thomas, a two-time All-State selection and a four time All-Conference performer, is one of the top hitters in BIC history. Thomas batted at a .525 clip last year, jacked four home runs and had 37 RBI. Two of her homers were grand slams. She also walloped 11 doubles and scored 34 runs in leading BIC to a 23-2 record. The Lady Mustangs are currently 16-4 this season and are 85-15 during Thomas' four years at BIC. Thomas, a post player in basketball, also helped guide the Lady Mustangs to three state tournament appearances on the hard court.

"Karo has become a great leader," said BIC Coach Marty Williford. "She has really come along and been a very vocal leader in the dugout and on the field when we need her. I think she will be a great asset for Auburn University in Montgomery. She is a field rat and softball is her game."

"I am very excited about playing college ball," said Thomas, who will be playing for former Williams Baptist College Coach Eric Newell. "I am ready to play on the next level."