Central Michigan University Athletics
Softball Signs Six Recruits
1/3/2002 12:00:00 AM | Softball
Jan. 3, 2002
MOUNT PLEASANT -- Central Michigan University softball coach Margo Jonker announced the signing of six student-athletes to national letters of intent to play for the Chippewas.
Joining CMU next season will be infielder Stephanie Crews (Chelsea), catcher Brittany Decker (Westminster, Colo./Standley Lake), infielder Christan Dhondt (Perrysburg, Ohio), infielder Allie Hansen (Agoura Hills, Calif./Agoura), outfielder Karen Hohs (Morton Grove, Ill./Niles West) and infielder Aimee Smith (Romeo), a transfer from Macomb Community College.
"This class is one of the best we've had in the last couple of years," Jonker said. "This year we were successful at landing left-handed hitters and players that will give us depth in areas we need.
"The group has the potential to make an impact immediately and throughout their careers. We are excited because of the heart they have and how they truly enjoy playing the game."
Crews played second base and shortstop for Chelsea High School.
"Stephanie has the potential to be an outstanding Division I talent both offensively and defensively," Jonker said. "She is a power player."
Decker was an all-conference and all-state selection last season at Westminster High.
"Brittany impressed us with her heart and then we noticed her physical skills," Jonker said. "She has a gun for an arm and is an ideal person to come lead the team in the catching position once she learns our system."
Dhondt is a left-handed hitter from Perrysburg High. She was all-conference, all-district and second team all-state last season. The infielder was the team MVP and the school's female athlete of the year.
"Christan is a corner player who loves to play softball," Jonker said. "She's a lefty at the plate who could be a major offensive threat. We expect her to add some punch to our lineup in future years."
Hansen is a middle infielder from Agoura High School.
"Allie has played top competition at both middle infield positions," Jonker said. "She will be our future up the middle and will make an impact immediately."
Hohs is a three-time all-conference selection and an all-area selection at Niles West High.
"Here is another player with heart," Jonker said. "Karen is a good athlete who is willing to do what it takes to get the job done. A lefty hitter, she has above average foot speed."
Smith comes to CMU from Macomb Community College. The Romeo native helped MCC to the conference championship last season. Smith was an all-conference, all-region and team MVP selection.
"We have been looking for a left-handed power hitter and Aimee may be just the person to answer that call," Jonker said. "She has experience and knows how to win."
Central Michigan will graduate five seniors following this season. The Chippewas compete in the Mid-American Conference where they have won nine titles and made 11 trips to the NCAA tournament since 1982.
