July 23, 2007

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - The Marshall softball team has signed Jessica Hughes and Jackie Jaegle to National Letters of Intent for the 2008 season, coach Shonda Stanton announced Monday.

"Jessica brings much needed speed to our offensive lineup, Stanton said. "She will put pressure on the defense and provide us a more balanced attack with her quickness."

Hughes, a native of Stillwater, Okla., batted .435 with six triples and 68 hits during her senior season at Stillwater High School. Her accomplishments on the field earned her all-state and all-conference recognition. She was named Offensive Player of the Year for the Frontier Conference three straight years and guided Stillwater to the state championship.

Hughes owns a 3.9 GPA and was a member of student council and National Honor Society.

Jackie Jaegle, a Georgia State transfer, started 73 games in two years for the Panthers. As a sophomore, Jaagle had a .391 average with four doubles and two home runs. During her freshman campaign, Jaegle ranked fifth in the Colonial Athletic Association with her .353 batting average. For her freshman year efforts, Jaegle garnered many accolades including CAA Rookie of the Year, CAA Rookie of the Week and first-team All-CAA.

"Jackie is a very versatile athlete with a consistent stick," Stanton said. "She brings successful collegiate experience to Marshall and will give us depth behind the plate, on the corner or in the outfield."

Jaegle hails from Kennesaw, Ga., and attended Kell High School.