Rio Grande Softball has first college signing in 16 years

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Angelina Sanchez is making history for the Rio Grande High School softball program.

For years, Sanchez has been putting in the hard work to achieve her goals.

"I would do summer school from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then I come here straight after practice," she explained.

Snachez recently became the first Raven in 16 years to sign a letter of intent to play softball at the college level.

"My heart was racing a little bit," she said. "I was like, I was really excited of course to be able to have this opportunity."

Rio Grande softball head coach Barbara Marquez has always encouraged her players to dream big.

Now, Sanchez hopes to inspire future Ravens to reach new heights.

"If I was like in my sophomore year I would not of even thought I’d be playing right now, so I really like that she believed in me and pushed me harder," Sanchez said.

"When I started here three years ago it was my goal to first establish a tradition like our boys program has where our athletes are good in the classroom, good on the field, and give back to the community. My goal is to keep little girls wanting to come to Rio. I’m very excited for our program and for Angelina," Coach Marquez said.

Sanchez is headed to the University of the Southwest in Hobbs where she plans to study business.