BY DAN HILDEBRAN
Keystone Heights High School softball standout Amberlea Wagner signed a letter of intent with Santa Fe College during a ceremony in the high school cafeteria on Tuesday, November 18.
Principal Laurie Burke said Wagner embodies the school’s values.
“We love to have our students like this shine for us, and I’m so proud to have Amberlea represent our school with what she put into getting here, but to represent our school because of the character she has on top of all that.”
Coach Jessica Marquart said Wagner is not only one of the best catchers she’s coached, but her versatility allows her to contribute even more to the team.
“She is just one of the best catchers I’ve ever had at the school,” Marquart said. “Probably the best blocking catcher I’ve ever had. No balls get behind her. She’s a true definition of a utility player. Not only does she catch, she catches mainly for us because that’s where we need her at. But I can put her at shortstop, first base, or the outfield. She can hit. She can bunt. She can run the bases.”
Marquart added that Wagner not only brings skills to the diamond but also heart.
“I think she was just born to be in this sport and to play this sport,” the coach continued. She loves it, she has a passion for it.”
The coach said Wagner’s softball roots run deep, recognizing the signee’s great-grandfather, Dale Richardson, in the audience, who helped Marquart coach the team when she first arrived in Keystone in 2004-2005.
Before signing the letter of intent, Wagner thanked her family members who have supported her since she first dreamed about playing college softball at age seven.
She thanked her mother, Amanda, whom she called her first coach, and her father for his encouragement.
“He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and when I had my worst games and my best games,” she said.
She also thanked her grandparents and great-grandparents for their sacrifices, their advice, and for cheering her on through good times and bad.
Wagner praised her coaches for pushing her and holding her accountable.
“You taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle both success and failure,” she said. Thank you…for pushing me past my limits when I thought I couldn’t go any further. Every drill, every lesson, every talk.”
Wagner also acknowledged her teammates, whom she called her second family.
“The memories we made on and off the field mean everything to me,” she said.
She also offered advice for those who want to follow in her footsteps.
“Just trust the process,” she said. “Everything will work out just how it’s supposed to. God’s timing is perfect, and your path is your own. Don’t let anyone else decide your path for you. Stay patient, stay humble, and keep putting in the work when no one’s watching. Don’t rush anything and always trust in God’s plan for you.”
