The Auburn Montgomery softball program and Head Coach Chris Steiner-Wilcoxson are pleased to announce the signings of Claire Wilson and Reese Byrnes for the 2014 season.
Wilson comes to AUM from Towns County High School in Hiawassee, Georgia. She is the first player in Towns County history to sign a softball scholarship.

A four-year player for the Indians, Wilson finished last season with a .465 batting average, .535 on-base percentage, a school-record five home runs, 22 RBI, 30 runs scored and a .767 slugging percentage. She was a three-time First-Team All-Region performer, and received the Wendy’s High School Heisman award in 2012. Her eight career home runs are also a school record.

“As soon as I stepped foot on the AUM softball field I felt the ‘this is the place for me’ feeling,” Wilson said. “The girls I met were great and the coaching staff is amazing.

Governor Robert Bentley on Thursday announced the appointment of Jeana Ross as the state’s new Department of Children’s Affairs Commissioner.

“Jeana Ross brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, along with a strong commitment to serving children and their families,” Governor Bentley said. “She also has a tremendous enthusiasm for early learning. I am excited she is joining us to lead this important state agency. She will play a fundamental role as we work to serve the children of Alabama.”

Ross most recently served as a federal programs coordinator and grant administrator for Madison City Schools. She has developed, directed and evaluated programs that impact Alabama’s children from the time they enter pre-K classes until graduation. In addition, she has extensive experience in grant writing, securing more than $7.5 million in grant funds for Alabama schools and programs.

Huntingdon running back Trevor Manuel got a surprise as he walked off the field last Saturday after the FCS Senior Scout Bowl.

Shortly after being named MVP and scoring the winning touchdown in the South All-Stars’ 20-17 overtime win against the North, Manuel was approached by a young fan.

 “I was coming off the field and this little kid asked me if he could have my gloves,” Manuel said. “Of all the players out there, he chose to ask me. The smile on his face when I gave him the gloves really made my day. That’s something I’ll remember.”

The All-Star game was the second in eight days for Manuel and Huntingdon defensive tackle D.J. Chappell. It was also Manuel’s second MVP honor. Manuel was named MVP of the D3 Senior Classic on Dec. 7.