The Troy State softball program signed eight players during the 2000-2001 recruiting season, as released by head coach Melanie Davis.

"I am extremely excited about this class," said Davis. "They are all excellent players and winners both on the field and in the classroom."

The Lady Trojans signed four players from the junior college ranks and four from high school.

Troy State added some depth to its pitching staff with the signings of Christi Curran and Ashley Floyd. Curran spent two seasons at Florida Community College at Jacksonville. While there, she was named first-team All-Mid-Florida Conference and second-team all-state her last year. Floyd comes to Troy State after a stellar high school career. Her junior season, she held a 26-4 record with a 0.31 earned run average.

"Ashley and Christi are both very good pitchers," said Davis. "They are going to give our staff some depth and push the returnees for a spot in the starting lineup."

With the loss of seven senior to graduation, the Lady Trojans signed six position players, each bringing something different to the program.

Bonnie Belin comes to Troy State after lettering for four years at Port St. Joe High School in Florida. A solid defensive player, she brings size and power to lineup and will see time at third base as well as first base.

After two seasons at Chipola (Fla.) Junior College, Erin Flater comes to Troy State with some impressive credentials. Flater was named to the All-Panhandle Conference team while leading CJC in batting. She also ranked in the top 10 in the state in home runs while being named the team captain. Flater will see playing time at either first or second base this season.

Tamra Howen signed with Troy State out of high school and will see playing time at catcher. A native of White Rock, British Columbia, Canada, Howen was a four-time MVP at Provincials for her summer team, the White Rock Renegades.

Katrina Jackson brings some speed to the Lady Trojan lineup. A native of Wichita, Kan., Jackson played the past two years at Butler County (Kan.) Community College, earning all-conference and all-region honors. She finished her sophomore year with a .374 batting average.

Melissa Maher will add some pop to the lineup this season. Maher was named to the all-district team and all-state team for three years at St. Agnes Academy. She was named team captain her senior year and was also named 2001 District MVP.

Sammi Wilkes brings a strong arm, solid glove and excellent bat control after two years at Chipola Junior College. Wilkes was named to the All-Panhandle Conference team both years as a shortstop and designated player. During high school, she was an all-state selection for five years.

"With the loss of seven players to graduation," said Davis, "we are counting on the members of this class to step up and fill those voids."