Merced’s Kravec signs with Notre Dame de Namur

Megan Kravec set hers sights on this day in junior high. That’s when the Merced High senior realized she wanted to play college softball.

That’s why Friday was so rewarding for the Bears catcher.

Kravec made her college choice official after signing her national letter of intent to accept a softball scholarship to Notre Dame de Namur in front of her family and a few friends in the Merced student body office on Friday morning.

“I started playing T-ball,” Kravec said. “Once I hit junior high, I knew I really wanted to play in college. That’s when I knew I wanted to achieve my dream.”

Kravec was attracted to the Bay Area and Notre Dame de Namur’s location in Belmont was a perfect fit.

“I started looking at schools I was interested in my sophomore year,” Kravec said. “I love the Bay Area. They have a really good softball team. It’s a Catholic school. It fits me perfectly.”

Kravec will be a fourth-year starter behind the plate for the Bears this spring. She was an all-Central California Conference selection last year after hitting .458 with five home runs and 18 RBIs.

“She puts in the effort, a lot of work and a lot of time,” said Merced coach Bart McAfee. “She’s good in all aspects of the game. Last year she called all our games. She’s a great catcher and a good hitter. She’s also a nice all-around kid.”

Kravec is leaning toward majoring in kinesiology with the hopes of becoming an athletic trainer.

“I’m so excited,” she said. “People say you’re signing your life away. I don’t feel that way. I’m ready for the next journey.”

Hilmar’s Azevedo signs

Yellowjackets senior Landon Azevedo signed his letter of intent to accept a golf scholarship to Sacramento State on Thursday.

Azevedo is a three-time Sac-Joaquin Section Masters qualifier.

“It was pretty cool, definitely a reality check,” Azevedo said. “I feel very lucky to to have the opportunity I have.”

Sacramento State’s location was a definitely a draw for Azevedo, who wanted to stay close to home.

“I have a little sister (Makena) who is one year younger than me and she’s going to be a senior next year,” Azevedo said. “I’ll be close enough that I can drive to come see her play golf or if I have to come home.”

Azevedo plans to major in political science with the hopes of becoming a water attorney.

This story was originally published November 14, 2014 at 4:15 PM with the headline "Merced’s Kravec signs with Notre Dame de Namur."