The loud DING rings off the metal bat of junior Hope Gaudio, who is now and will forever be a Tiger. Gaudio publicly announced her commitment to Louisiana State University on Sept. 7, where she will continue her softball career.
“Legacy’s softball program has always been amazing,” Gaudio said. “It helped me in recruiting because of the high level of play I was offered.”
Gaudio grew up knowing she wanted to play softball at the collegiate level, but her eyes quickly became attached to LSU.
“I chose LSU because of the incredible coaching staff who not only develop athletes but also foster a true sense of family and belonging,” Gaudio said. “The personal connections I’ve built with each coach are genuine and meaningful, which made LSU feel like home from the start. LSU truly offers an environment like no other.”
Last season, Gaudio finished the year with 17 HRs, nine triples, a .690 batting average, 78 hits and 64 RBIs, all of which broke the previous record. Extra Innings ranked her fifth in the country for her graduating class.
“I definitely credit so much of my success to my time here at Legacy,” Gaudio said. “All of the great coaching here helps me sharpen my skills on and off the field.”
Head Softball Coach Terry Tiffee began coaching at Legacy two years ago with previous experience at Lake Ridge, never coaching a player like Gaudio.
“Comparing her to other girls I’ve coached throughout my time at Legacy and Lake Ridge, she has definitely set herself apart,” Coach Tiffee said. “She just wants it more and is willing to work and compete day in and day out.”
Senior Shayla Gonzalez began playing alongside Gaudio in her sophomore season. Since then, the two have hit 43 home runs combined.
“Her commitment for sure brought all of us together,” Gonzalez said. “It’s special seeing one of your teammates and best friend having so much success.”
According to NCSA, only about 1.6% of high school softball players play at the Division I level. Gaudio’s commitment as a junior sets her even further apart, given that most commitments come in an athlete’s senior season.
“It’s honestly so impressive that she’s been able to do all she has done,” Gonzalez said. “She works so hard everyday, and I know that her commitment won’t change that. She is going to come to practice every day with the right mindset, and it is going to benefit our entire season.”
Gaudio will host her signing day at Legacy when she enters her senior year. She will similarly be recognized on senior night next season.
“It will be so cool to see all of the other student athletes living out their dream as well on signing day,” Gaudio said.
Gaudio continues to receive support from friends, family, coaches and many more people, but she remains humble through it all.
“This is such a blessing and dream come true, and I’m so thankful for all the support I’ve had along the way,” Gaudio said. “As much as I’m thankful for my family, coaches and teammates because I wouldn’t be here without them, I want people to remember that committing to LSU is just the start. I’m ready to keep working hard and represent the Broncos the best way I can.”
