Fulton County Ohio Media

On Wednesday, in front of family, friends, coaches and fellow students and teammates, Swanton’s Taylor Forrest signed her National Letter of Intent to continue her education and softball career at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio.  The Lady Bulldog standout shined in her junior year as a force in the pitching circle and a power swing at the plate, to earn a spot on the 2022 All- NWOAL First Team roster.  “Taylor’s work ethic is unmatched, and no one works harder for her team than she does,” commented first-year Swanton head coach Lauren Yoder.  “She truly has the ‘team first’ mindset, and although I’m so excited for her to continue playing, we will most definitely be left with a huge hole to fill when she graduates.”

Taylor developed and honed her softball skills beginning at a young age playing with the elite Wizards Havoc traveling softball program based in Holland, Ohio and competing against other top programs around the states of Ohio and Michigan.  She also worked with professional instructors to improve her pitching and hitting abilities.

“She started when she was four or five playing t-ball and she has overcome a lot,” said Taylor’s mother, Jenni.  “She’s very coachable and always determined to do her best.  We’re very proud of her.”  Heidelberg is located only about an hour’s drive from Swanton but the Student Princes compete in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) so Mom Jenni and Dad James are well aware their days of long hours on the road to watch their talented daughter play softball are far from being over.

“I chose Heidelberg because right when I walked on campus it just felt like home.  It felt like an experience I was ready for.,” said Taylor explaining her choice over four other offers.  At Swanton she has been a starter since her freshman year under then coach Joe Nye playing several positions.  “My primary is pitching but I also play first base and some outfield,” she said.

While in the classroom, Taylor plans to study Exercise Science.  However, before that, she still has her final season of high school softball yet to play.  “This year is my year,” she added.  “So, I’m excited.”

Photo: Taylor Forrest signs with Heidelberg University between parents Jenni and James Photo Credit: Betty Jo Sedowski