Today was a big day for thousands of high school athletes across the nation as they signed their Letter of Intent to play college ball.

Because it's Veteran's Day, many will wait until tomorrow or later as many high schools are closed, but for the No. 1 catcher in the FloSoftball 2016 Hot 100, that moment takes place today as Bailey Hemphill from Lafayette, Louisiana makes it official: she's going to be playing in the SEC next fall at Alabama!

Before that, however, she'll try to help her school, St. Thomas More, win its third Class 4A state title in four years but first things first: today is a day to celebrate and we caught up with Bailey to talk about hits immensely important--and proud--day for the senior and her family.

Note: if you're a senior and have a cool signing photo or video to send to us for possible publication, forward to: sarah.hoffman@flosports.tv.

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How long ago was it that you committed?
I committed in October of my sophomore year, in 2013.   

Did you ever think this day--signing with Alabama--would come!
I knew the day would eventually come, but it sure seemed like it took forever! 

When will you actually put your signature on the Letter of Intent and make it official?
I am signing my NLI after school today. 

Will there be a lot of attention when you sign or will it be more quiet?
It will be more low-key.  I'm signing with three of my classmates (baseball, golf and volleyball).  We will take turns signing our NLIs, and we'll each have a table decorated with our college colors (and cookie cake!).

Doing anything else to celebrate the big occasion?
I hope we go out to dinner tonight!

What highlight stands out to you about the recruiting process?
I'm still amazed at how much "homework" the Alabama coaches did on me and my parents before they made an offer.

When exactly did it click that Alabama was where you wanted to go?
Seeing the program up close and personal at my first camp freshman year was a "Wow" experience, but I was really blown away on my unofficial visit my sophomore year.  The coaches, staff and players made me feel like I was already a part of the family.  And, it has only gotten better since then. 

What does signing with Alabama mean to you personally and to those who've been part of your success (family, coaches, teammates, etc.)?
It's kind of crazy when I think about next year--playing softball for Alabama--a team that I have watched on TV for years!  Of course, I could not have done any of this alone. My family has sacrificed so much for me to play softball--traveling all over the country for tournaments, driving four hours round-trip for practice, and annual trips to Colorado for lessons with my hitting instructor.  My high school and travel ball coaches have taught me so much about the game and life in general.  I really have been blessed over the years with excellent coaches.  My teammates have encouraged me every step of the way, too, and have kept me grounded, too.  The only way I can repay everyone who played a part in my success so far is by continuing to work hard, on and off the field. 

How much Tide apparel and gear would we find at your house?
I have a good bit.  I love my houndstooth pajama pants!

What's next for you and your softball plans?
My high school season starts in January and hopefully we can make it back to the state tournament.