By Jack Walker

Staff Writer

Van Alstyne senior Chandler Henson will be able to fully enjoy her final year of high school softball competition after accepting scholarship offers to the University of Mary Hardin Baylor where she will be able to further her athletic career.

Henson made the decision to attend the NCAA Division III school which is located in Belton Texas after considering opportunities.

"I really liked the facilities and I got to meet some of the players and we got along really well, I know that it was the right choice for me." Henson said.

She was impressed with the coaches at the American Southwest Conference school as well. Kasey Blomquist will be beginning her eighth year at the school this season and the Lady Crusaders have made several NCAA playoff appearances during her tenure. They play in a conference, which includes schools such as Sul Ross, Howard Payne and Hardin Simmons.

In addition to her experiences with the Lady Panthers Henson has played select softball since she was 10 years old.

"I played with a team from Allen and Plano called the American Freedom Gold-Trout team and I have played with Bailey Offill on select team's during the summer." Henson said.

Henson was the all-district catcher selection from District 10-3A last season after leading the Lady Panthers in almost every offensive category. She batted .364 for the season, knocking in 20 runs as she led the team in extra base hits.

Her defensive play was an asset to the Lady Panthers and her work with the pitching staff was a plus for the team as well.

The 2010 softball season is just around the corner and now Henson can give her full attention to the Lady Panther season.