Nov. 13 is the early signing date for many athletes signing to play collegiate sports. Seniors Becky Smith and Hannah Bergh signed their National Letters of Intent (NLI) to play softball at the University of Minnesota – Duluth and the University of North Dakota, respectively.

A National Letter of Intent is an agreement that a student will attend and play at an institution for one year.  National Letters of intent are for Division I and Division II universities only.

Next fall, Becky Smith will be attending the University of Minnesota- Duluth (UMD). She is a senior captain on this year’s team and will be a vital player on the Bulldogs’ squad.

“It will be hard to leave my Orono team behind but I am excited to play for UMD,” Smith said.

Smith plays shortstop on Orono’s team and hopes to continue playing middle infield in college.

Hannah Bergh, also a senior captain, will be attending the University of North Dakota (UND).

“I am so blessed to have such supportive friends, family and coaches,” Bergh said.

The University of North Dakota is a Division I college that has a young coach with high expectations.

“Finally, all [of] the college nervousness is over,” Bergh said.

Shelby Earley is apart of the Advertising Staff for The Spartan Speaks