By T. Scott Boatright
Elissa Guillote turned in a .533 batting average and .745 on base percentage as a junior shortstop for Choudrant’s Lady Aggies last season.
But before the 2023 season begins, Guillote earned one of her biggest walks ever as a Lady Aggie as she knocked a major life decision out of the park Tuesday as she signed a national letter of intent to continue her softball career on the next level.
Guillote will take her next steps in the walk of life an hour-and-a-half north of Choudrant after signing on to play collegiately for Southern Arkansas University Tech in Camden, Arkansas.
“I went up there and looked at the campus in January and met the coaches and the team, and I just really liked the family environment there,” Guillote said. “I felt very welcomed. I just kind of instantly knew — that was where I wanted to go.”
Playing within easy driving distance is another bonus for both Guillote and her family, friends and supporters.
“They’ve always been my biggest supporters and I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” Guillote said about the fact that her family will be able to watch her play at SAU Tech. “So it will be nice for them to see where all they love and support has gotten me.”
Guillote, who said she’d like to be forensic psychologist when her playing days end, has been primarily a shortstop for the Lady Aggies but said the SAU Tech coaching staff had indicated they could use her in a variety of roles.
“I know that when I go up there I’ll be pretty much a utility player,” Guillote said.
Choudrant softball coach Wayne Antley said that won’t be a problem for Guillote.
“She can play pretty much anywhere,” Antley said. “She can play outfield, she’s caught, but she’s mainly our shortstop.”
Antley said intensity plays as a big a role in Guillote’s game than anything else.
“She’ll give you everything she’s got,” Antley said. “She’s a hard worker, and if you tell her you want her to do one thing, then she’ll try it. She’s very coachable. She’ll do anything they’ll ask her to.”
Guillote said the best part of signing early is being able to focus on her true goal.
“I think it’s nice to have that relief of knowing that I have something ahead for me after high school,” Guillote said. “Now I can focus on working toward that state championship.”
