BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Zoie Susannah Grace Hinkle, a senior softball pitcher at Martin County High School, signed Friday to continue her academic and athletic career at Alice Lloyd College, where she plans to study English Education. The signing ceremony took place at MCHS.Education.

Hinkle, daughter of Tabitha and Tivis Hinkle, has played softball for 12 years.

During her career, she recorded over 150 strikeouts.

Hinkle’s coach, Boo Newsome, reflected on her impact.

“I wish I could have had her longer. We’ve been blessed with wonderful seniors this year. Alice Lloyd is getting a good one in the classroom and on the field,” Newsome said of the graduating senior.

Known as the team’s ace on the mound, Hinkle was also active off the field. She participated in FBLA, MCHS Yearbook, JAG, BETA and Drama Club.

At the signing ceremony, Alice Lloyd assistant coach Mason Schroeder shared his excitement about adding Hinkle to the program.

“It’s a big day for her, but it’s also a big day for us as a softball program and school,” Schroeder said. “I’ve heard great things about Zoie on and off the field. We’re very excited for her to be on campus. She gets a chance to play the game she loves, not too far from home. We can’t wait to see what she does in the blue and white next year,” he said.

Hinkle will be joining ALC at the height of their softball stint. The team broke the record for most wins in a season this spring and was the Mideast Region Runner-up.

“Thanks to my parents for getting me to where I am,” Hinkle said in front of her family, friends, coaches and teammates. “Thank you to my coaches. A huge thank you to Alice Lloyd College for letting me continue my academic and athletic career.”