Dallas, TX—February , 2015–The Dallas Charge are pleased to announce the signing of former University of Texas All-American Taylor Thom. The 2014 Big 12 Player of the Year signs as a free agent after finishing her eligibility with the Longhorns in 2014. The Cedar Park, Texas native ended her college career as one of the greatest hitters in Longhorn and Big 12 history.
“I am extremely excited to sign with the Charge and play against and with some of the best players in the game. I’m looking forward to starting my NPF career in my home state and being able to reconnect with the great softball fans in Texas,” said Thom.
Thom left a legacy as one of the greatest players in University of Texas softball history. The former shortstop is the career leader in RBIs (178) and ranks second in career homeruns (38) at Texas. She also ranks in the top five in career hits, doubles, runs scored, and stolen bases. Before being named the Big 12 Player of the Year, she was the 2011 Big 12 Freshman of the Year and was named to the All-Big 12 First team three times. Thom set Texas’s single season RBI record in 2013 while helping the Longhorns to the Women’s College World Series (WCWS).
Though she was arguably one of the top players in the game last year, Thom chose to sit out last summer to recover from a shoulder injury she sustained her senior year. She was also a member of Team USA in the summer of 2013.
“I feel very blessed to able to continue my career in the NPF, especially after sitting out last summer. I missed the game more than anything and cannot wait to get back out on the dirt,” said Thom.
By signing with the Charge, Thom will be reunited with her former college coach Jennifer McFalls. The Charge’s head coach worked closely with Thom as the team’s defensive coach.
There is no doubt in my mind that Taylor Thom has the potential to be one of the best shortstops that has played the game. She has tremendous range with a cannon arm. In addition, she brings a strong offensive game with power at the plate and speed on the bases. She is definitely a player that belongs in this league. I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue to coach her and watch her compete with some of the best players in the country.
With the signing of Taylor Thom, the Charge add their second player who hails from the Lone Star State. Thom graduated from Vista Ridge High School in 2010 and was a three-time Texas All-State selection.
The Dallas Charge inaugural season kicks off at home on June 3, 2015 against the Pennsylvania Rebellion. For more information and questions about the Charge, contact us at [email protected] or call 724-CHARGE1 (724-242-7431). You can also follow the Charge on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About the Dallas Charge
The Dallas Charge will begin competition in the National Pro Fastpitch league in 2015. The Charge will provide elite softball players the opportunity to pursue a professional career and inspire the next generation of professionals. Located in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, the Charge organization and its players are committed to demonstrating leadership in community involvement, entertainment, and professionalism. Follow the Charge at www.dallascharge.com or on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About National Pro Fastpitch
National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. The league, created to give elite female fastpitch players the opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport, has operated since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL). NPF is the Official Development Partner of Major League Baseball in the category of women’s fastpitch softball and has been since 2002.