On the softball diamond, Shawna Williams possesses all the skills college coaches search long and hard for.

The C.B. Aycock senior helped the Golden Falcons to a 9-5 record this season. Williams had an 8-3 record inside the pitchers’ circle, a 2.15 earned run average, pitched nine complete games, and tossed 77 strikeouts.

However, Williams’ most attractive attributes are her work ethic and determination.

That mix of character, integrity, and on-field talent made Williams highly valuable in the eyes of Pitt Community College. Williams announced she would become a Bulldog on Friday.

“It’s pretty awesome. I always dreamed of going to play at the next level,” Williams said. “It’s been a really big dream of mine.”

C.B. Aycock head coach LaVon Matthews first knew he had a potential star on his hands when watching Williams during her freshman year.

Williams’ willingness to put in countless hours on the field and in the classroom left a lasting impression on Matthews and is one reason why he is certain Williams will succeed in college.

“I remember when she was a freshman, and she pitched a perfect game at an Easter tournament at Harnett Central, and she was just getting into the program, and she’s just carried that on,” Matthews said. “Shawna has worked really hard and improved every year. She’s a very good athlete, and she’s going to be an asset to the program that she goes to.”

Williams plans to major in sonography, and she hopes to one day become an ultrasound technician.

During her time at C.B. Aycock, Williams learned the importance of perseverance and hard work.

She lost most of her junior season to the COVID-19 pandemic, but she remained positive, and Williams said she is thankful that she got to have a senior season.

“It’s been a very memorable four years,” Williams said. “I do wish I could have last year back. This season was different, but I did enjoy having a season to look forward to.”