By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Last spring was a successful one for the Lady Panther softball team that advanced to the state tournament for the first time in eight seasons. DeShawnna Bryant has been a big contributor for the Great Bend High School team both offensively and defensively over the past three seasons. Last week, she committed to continue her softball career next year at Butler Community College in El Dorado.
"I had excellent schools available to me," said Bryant. "In the end, I selected Butler because I wanted to enjoy college life away from home but still remain relatively close by. Additionally, Butler offers a fantastic program in sports with limitless opportunities, as well in the classrooms."
As a sophomore, Bryant batted .482 with two home runs, three triples, eight doubles, and 30 RBIs. In her junior season, she bumped her average to .489 with four homers, 15 doubles, 36 RBIs and 27 runs scored. She's ready to see what her senior season brings after the Lady Panthers finished last year at 22-7.
"I’m really looking forward to my senior year," she said. "With all the strong girls and wonderful coaches we have on our team, it's possible to do go to state again. Regardless of the outcomes, GB Panther softball will always be a part of who I am."
DeShawnna is the daughter of Courtney and Lori Bryant.