TCC's Jessica Whitlock signs with University of West Georgia

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (August 8, 2012) - Tallahassee Community College softball standout Jessica Whitlock has signed a national letter of intent with the University of West Georgia and will enroll at the school later this month. 

In signing with West Georgia, Whitlock will return to her home state after playing her first two seasons in the Panhandle Conference. 

The Bowden, Ga., native played at Northwest Florida State College in 2011 and batted .176 with one RBI in 16 games. Following the season, she transferred to Tallahassee and, as the team's everyday left fielder, improved her offensive numbers across the board in 2012. 

With the Eagles, Whitlock appeared in 48 games (45 starts) and batted .286 with five home runs and 20 RBI. She was also a perfect 12-for-12 in stolen bases. 

"West Georgia is getting a steal," said Tallahassee head coach Patti Townsend. "Jessica's speed and athleticism are going to be her biggest assets at the next level. 

"We were lucky enough to have her for one year (at Tallahassee) and got to see her grow, both on and off the field. We look forward to seeing her play (at West Georgia) and representing Tallahassee softball." 

Whitlock's Tallahassee career culminated with a selection to the FCSAA Gulf District All-Tournament Team in April. In four postseason games, Whitlock batted .364 (4-for-11) with three runs scored and one RBI, courtesy of a game-tying solo homer against arch-rival Chipola College in an elimination game, one that Tallahassee eventually won in extra innings. 

West Georgia, an NCAA Division II school, is located in Carrollton, Ga., and competes in the Gulf South Conference. Whitlock will have two years of eligibility remaining.