Velasquez makes it official

Perhaps the word ELITE – which was prominently displayed on an athletic shirt that was draped over a table - best summed up last week’s special ceremony for National Letter of Intent (NLI) day at Johnston Senior High School.
Although many schools in the state featured numerous seniors who announced where they’ll be taking their talents to college in the fall, JHS senior softball standout Arianna Velasquez was in the spotlight when she signed an NCAA Letter of Intent to accept a scholarship to the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut.
The impressive event, which was set up by JHS Athletic Director Justin Erickson, included Arianna’s father Juan and mother Dionny Velasquez and her sister Leslie Velasquez. Her brother Jean Velasquez was unable to attend.
Likewise, Pilgrim High School softball superstar Alyssa Twomey – a.k.a. the state’s top schoolgirl fast-pitch softball chucker – came with a bouquet of flowers for her Elite teammate who ranks among the best middle infielders in the state.
“Arianna and Alyssa play on the talent-filled Elite team which is ranked among the best travel teams in the state,” offered David Iannuccilli, who doubles as the Lady Panthers head softball coach and Chief of the Johnston Fire Department. “We are all happy for Arianna and wish her well at the collegiate level.”
Velasquez has been a JHS varsity starter since her freshman year and has landed All-Division honors in each of her three seasons.
“Arianna has been a pleasure to coach,” Iannuccilli went on. “She comes to practice every day ready to go and gives it her all. When it comes to games Arianna leaves it all on the field. She truly leads by example and is always willing to sacrifice personal stats for the best of our team.”
And that, the popular Panther coach wanted it known “is a trait you either have or don’t; Arianna has it all and she also stabilizes our middle infield and is always one of the first players who comes up in conversation when coaches discuss players in the league.”
Moreover, as Iannuccilli offered: “Arianna has a terrific glove and an extremely strong arm with a dangerous bat. I will be looking to her to provide strong leadership this upcoming season.”
Velasquez has compiled a .325 career batting average and .575 on base percentage. She has knocked 50 runs, smacked two home runs and belted five triples and nine doubles while stealing two dozen bases. She has also drawn 38 walks.
“Arianna has a high OBP because of her keen eye and patience at the plate.” Iannuccilli noted. “That’s what she has drawn 39 walks over her first three varsity seasons.”
So, it’s off to the University of Bridgeport where Arianna Velasquez plans to major in elementary education as well as making an impact for Head Coach Dawn Stearns’ Lady Purple nights rank among the best teams in the East Coast Conference.