Some players dream of playing for a major power school or in a big-time conference. Others are looking for a prestigious academic school. Today’s profile is on a player who wanted to be the “hometown hero” and got that wish as she was offered and committed last week!

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Name: SARAH ROCHA
High School: Montwood
City: El Paso
State: 
Texas
Grad year: 2016
Club: American Freedom – El Paso
Position(s): OF/C
Height: 5-8
High School Stats: 32 games started, hit .535 with 12 doubles, four triples, seven home runs and 42 RBI and an on-base percentage of .586
Honors: 2014 – 2^nd Team All-State, 1^st Team All-District
College: UTEP

How UTEP Found Her: According to Sarah’s father, Salvador, UTEP began showing interest in Sarah after she attended a camp this past summer. “They contacted her club coach Mark Mattox of American Freedom Gold-El Paso and express to him their interests. They saw her play in Lubbock and in Houston at Ronald McDonald. On December 8 she received an email from Head Coach Tobin Echohawk asking her for a meeting and on December 9 Sarah committed to them.

Why the Miners? “As for Sarah choosing UTEP it was something that she was looking at since she was a freshman,” continued the junior’s father. “A couple of scouts had mentioned to her that she had the talent to play at the next level if she worked hard at it. This past summer she joined American Freedom Gold – El Paso which prepared her to be able to be seen at the next level. She’s always mentioned that she wanted to be the ‘hometown hero!’

Sarah’s Words: “I’m still in shock that I’ll be staying home to play for Coach Echo-Hawk at a D1 university. Staying at home was always my goal and my dream was being able to play in my hometown.”
What is your favorite bat: “Louisville Slugger, because of the sweet spot.”
What bat does your team use? “I use a Louisville Slugger Xeno.”
What is your favorite brand of cleats? 
”Nike and Under Armour.”