Greenbrier East softball catcher Olivia Plybon signed her national letter of intent last Wednesday, March 29 to continue her career at St. Andrews University, an NAIA school in North Carolina.
Surrounded by family, friends, coaches, teammates and teachers, Plybon put her pen to the paper to officially reserve her spot at the school in 2023-24.
This season for the Spartans, Plybon is hitting .316 and has scored seven runs. She possesses a strong throwing arm from her catcher position and is athletic enough to move around behind home plate when needed.
Plybon spoke on why she chose St. Andrews over other schools.
“St. Andrews truly felt like a tight-knit community and had the sense of home when I was on campus. The head coach reminded me a lot of Jason Stewart who was my coach all throughout middle school and travel ball and helped me the most in the beginning of my career.
“Having an opportunity to play for someone with similar characteristics was a chance I didn’t think I would get, but once I saw Coach Burris coach her team, I knew I would be in good hands. The school is in a great location with a great community. The staff are great and take the time to get to know you personally. This was an important factor for me when choosing a school. I want to be a name and not a number in the classroom.”
Plybon on her goals in college and how academics affected her decision.
“When I get to St. Andrews I plan to work hard on and off the field. I want to be the best I can be on and off the field. Academics will always come first to me, so I am excited to further my education while being able to play the sport I love for a little while longer.”
“I will be majoring in business with a specialty in therapeutic horsemanship management. Their equine center is amazing (this was also another selling factor). When I was given the opportunity to still work with horses, I knew I had to take it. I want to be successful in the classroom as I will be able to finish my undergraduate degree in three years.”
The West Virginia Daily News Staff wishes Olivia the best of luck on the rest of her season at East, and in her future at St. Andrews University.
