January 23, 2021

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

Jessica Houston has achieved her dream of committing to a college softball program, but that doesn’t mean she’s satisfied. The 2021 RHP/IF is determined to keep getting better when she plays for Carolina University, an NCCAA school in Winston-Salem, N.C.

Houston, who will graduate from Central Christian H.S. in Georgia, enrolled with ScoutU during November. Within 1 month, she found the perfect college fit.

“Not only did Carolina have the major I wanted (elementary education), but they also have a minor in American sign language, which is near and dear to my heart,” Houston said. “So academically it was a great choice. The coaches really sealed the deal. They expect you to work and earn your position and playing time. I appreciated how direct they were. This kind of coaching encourages me to work harder. They like to motivate and challenge you to be the best student, athlete and young adult! Why wouldn’t I choose them?!”

Houston was named to the 1st-Team All-Region each of the last three seasons after posting an OBP around .400. She also locates very well with a fastball in the mid-50s. ScoutU’s Scott Woodcock expected her skill set to draw lots of attention.

“She has all the pitches, and her change-up really makes hitters stay on their toes,” Woodcock said. “Because she’s so smart and hardworking, Jessica will be a great asset to the Bruins.”

Houston’s aunt contacted ScoutU in the fall, admitting that Jessica needed recruiting help. Once she got the right exposure, she received multiple offers and had three college tours scheduled by the time she committed to Carolina University.

“Scott Woodcock was phenomenal!” Houston said. “He walked my family and I through everything. Scott was quick to get coaches in contact with us, and he was great listening to what was important to us. I know that I would not be going to Carolina without him! He has been a huge instrument in making my dreams come true!”

Softball was just one piece of the puzzle for Houston. She made this decision knowing that it will impact the rest of her life, and she couldn’t be happier.

“If you look back at how my childhood started, I wouldn’t have even thought college was an option,” Houston said. “Finding softball and the love of the game changed my life. Playing college softball was really a dream of mine and one I didn’t know was actually obtainable. Now, both going to college and continuing to play the sport I love is just unbelievable. Anything is possible when you want it bad enough!”