Caulkins inks with Lakers

Tonya Caulkins posed with family members as she inked her letter with Grand Valley State last Wednesday. NORTH BRANCH — Tonya Calkins, a senior softball player at North Branch, signed a national letter of intent to play softball for Grand Valley State University next season last Wednesday during the Div. 2 early signing period.

While Calkins ultimately chose GVSU, she also considered Saginaw Valley State University and Central Michigan University.

“Saginaw Valley and Central have good programs, but I went on multiple tours and Grand Valley felt right,” said Calkins. “I love Grand Valley.”

Another reason Calkins chose Grand Valley was for its educational offerings. Calkins will major in secondary education. Calkins knows the transition to college will be a tough one.

“The hardest part will be being away from home and not having someone there to push me all the time to focus on school,” she said.

The Lakers starting first baseman is a senior this season, so Calkins expects to get plenty of playing time her freshman year.

“My goal is to play right away and I want to hit .350 my first year,” she said.

According to North Branch softball coach Cindy Howe, Calkins will transition well to college.

“The transition from high school to college is always a big one for any student, but I know that the intelligence and determination that this kid possesses will serve her well in all transitions of life,” Howe said.

In the 2009 season, Calkins had a .590 batting average with five home runs, 22 doubles, three triples and 47 RBI. In the field, she boasted a .990 fielding percentage with only three errors and 264 put-outs. Calkins will also be playing her second season on Finesse 18U Gold, the only Gold team in Michigan.

“Grand Valley is really lucky to have her, any university would be,” said Howe. “Tonya is the best player I have ever coached...She is the kind of kid that makes teaching a joy and coaching a dream.”