Surrounded by teammates, coaches, friends, and family, senior Tanna Howe officially signed the letter to continue her athletic and academic career at the University of Central Missouri, joining the Jennies softball program.
For Tanna, the day marked the beginning of an exciting new journey.
“I’m feeling very excited to go to college and have a fresh start of a new chapter. I know I’ll miss family and friends back at home, but also know that I’m ready to go somewhere different, meet new people, and do what I love most with people that have the same passion and desire to play softball,” Howe said.
Her commitment to UCM comes from more than just athletic opportunity; it’s about connection and belonging.
“I chose UCM because of the people, culture, and atmosphere. Most of all though, nothing beats the culture of the softball team at UCM. The coaches and players instantly take you in with the warmest welcomes, and make you a part of the family the first day you’re there,” Howe said.
She also shared that staying close to home was important.
“I always knew I never wanted to go too far away from home, so the short drive to UCM was a pro… Lastly, the coaches care about you outside of softball. They truly care about you and your well being. That factor has always been important to me, so I feel blessed to have found that at UCM,” Howe said.
Howe has already gotten a taste of what the future holds after attending her official visit.
“As of right now, I’m as prepared as I can be for college… staying overnight with future teammates, I got a true glimpse of the next four years! I couldn’t be more excited for the future and what is awaiting me,” Howe said.
Her head WHS softball coach, Eric Flores, says UCM is gaining a player who shines in every aspect of the game.
“She is an impact player in all aspects of the game. Offensively she can change the game with her gap-to-gap hitting and power. Defensively, she makes all the routine plays, then she will wow you with her athleticism. On the base path, she is a problem for opposing defenses with her speed and aggressiveness. Tanna fights for every inch of dirt and will take it,” Flores said.
But beyond her skill, her leadership has helped elevate the entire program.
“Tanna’s leadership is irreplaceable. She leads by example every day with her work ethic. Her effort and her attitude show out in practice and in games. Her type of effort is infectious and spreads throughout the team,” Flores said.
He is confident she will succeed at the next level.
“I’m super proud and excited for her to continue her athletic and academic career at UCM! It will be great to have her just up the road so that we can catch some games and continue to follow her career,” Flores said.
As she prepares to trade in her high school uniform for Jennies red, Tanna is grateful for where she came from; and ready to embrace what’s ahead.
“Although high school has its own chapter, going to college brings a lot of excitement and happiness! It will allow me to build new relationships and be with an amazing culture of the Jennies softball team that I’ve always dreamed of being part of,” Howe said.
A hometown player with big dreams, Howe is stepping into her future with confidence, passion, and a softball family waiting for her in Warrensburg. The entire school is cheering her on as she takes her game, and her life, to the next level.
Congratulations, Tanna! The next chapter starts now.
