May 23, 2013
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gamecock head softball coach Beverly Smith added to her stellar incoming freshman group for the 2014 season with Effie Manahan, a catcher/third baseman from Brooklet, Ga., during the spring signing period.
Manahan played four years at Southeast Bulloch High School, helping the team to winning records the past three years. As a senior, she tallied a .558 batting average, posting 17 doubles, nine triples and seven homers for the Lady Yellow Jackets. Twice, Manahan claimed all-state honors, and she earned all-region accolades three times. She also played basketball for a year, taking the most improved player award in 2009-10. Playing with different travel softball teams, Manahan ended with the Tennessee Fury, helping them to a top-20 finish in last summer’s ASA Nationals.
“Effie is a great addition to the 2013 recruiting class,” said Smith. “She is a versatile athlete and has a huge upside. I expect her to compete at multiple positions. I am looking forward to seeing her in the Garnet and Black.”
Manahan joins Nickie Blue (Longmont, Col.), Mackenzie Moler (Purcellville, Va.), Kaylea Snaer (Rowland Heights, Calif.), Macey Webb (Stansfield, N.C.), Taylor Williams (Flatonia, Texas) and Victoria Williams (Williamston, S.C.) as the incoming freshman for the 2014 season. The Gamecocks lose three position starters and one pitcher from the 2013 squad that went 34-25 and made the program’s first NCAA regional appearance under Smith.
