By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – A major contributor to the Thompson High School softball team will be continuing her athletic and academic career in the state over the next several years after she signed a scholarship with Troy University during an April 30 ceremony.

THS softball player Allie Miller inked the offer while surrounded by friends, family members, teammates, coaches and THS administrators in the THS cafeteria.

“This is a celebration of Allie and what she’s accomplished on the softball field and in the classroom. When I first heard Allie had a possibility of coming here from Chelsea, as a softball coach, I was ecstatic,” said THS head softball coach Kevin Todd. “God puts people in places that they need to be. Allie knows I love her to death. She is one of the most gifted softball players I’ve ever known, but she doesn’t think so. She is going to do whatever she sets her mind to. If she gets the word ‘can’t’ out of her mind, the sky is the limit for this kid.

“I wish I had her a year earlier, I’ll be honest with you. She’s worked her tail off, and I’m so proud of her for that. She’s going to do great things, and I’m going to be her biggest fan,” Todd added.

THS Principal Dr. Wesley Hester said the event marked a milestone in Miller’s life, and said she has had a positive impact on the school during her time there.

“This is always one of the most special parts of this job for me. This is such a huge step for Allie, and a big opportunity for Allie, and she is so deserving,” Hester said. “We’ve been blessed to have her with us this year, and I know everyone else feels the same about her. Allie has been such a positive addition to our school as a student, as a leader, you name it. Congratulations, we’re very proud of you.”

Miller said the signing marked the culmination of years of hard work.

“It’s what I’ve been working for my whole life, and it’s just a dream come true,” Miller said.