Bennett announces commitment to SMWC

Caeden Bennett, a softball player at Lincoln Trail College, expressed her enthusiasm for the next chapter in her softball career, stating, "I am so happy to announce that I am going to continue playing for the next two years at Saint Mary of the Woods! I can not wait to for the next two years and excited for what they hold!" Bennett expressed on Instagram.

Bennett, who had 12 runs and 19 hits in the 2023 Spring Season with 70 at bat appearances, said "I'm looking forward to doing our best in conference as a whole team. Being able to play the best of our ability while still having good team chemistry. Personally, I believe that being committed does help in a sense. But at the same time, I want to succeed for LT first. SMWC is my next chapter that I hope will help me play the best of my ability as well." Head Coach Erica Arnold, who played a pivotal role in Caeden's decision to commit to SMWC, shared her excitement, saying, "I am so happy for Caeden and excited that she made the decision to play on. Caeden is not only a gifted athlete but she is an excellent teammate. She excels on the field and in the classroom. SMWC is my alma mater, and with her majoring in education, I knew it would be a great fit for her. SMWC is also close to home for Caeden, and the softball program has a long tradition of success. I know Caeden will be an asset to the program and will continue to excel at the next level both athletically and academically."

With SMWC being the alma mater for Coach Arnold, that helped sell Bennett. "I wasn't even sure that I wanted to play these next two years. Coach Arnold actually played at SMWC, so she was able to help me connect with the school and the coach, providing me the opportunity to play if I wanted to. SMWC is closer to home for me. It is providing me the best athletic and educational opportunities than any other school that I've talked to. I am expecting that Coach Walker will push me to be the best athlete and teammate I can be."

Caeden Bennett's commitment to Saint Mary of the Woods College marks an exciting new chapter in her softball journey. Her dedication, talent, and academic pursuits make her a perfect fit for the SMWC softball program. We look forward to witnessing her continued success both on and off the field at SMWC.