The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Willis selected in National Pro Fastpitch draft
02.19.2007 | Softball
DENVER -- Texas Softball senior catcher Megan Willis was among the 27 senior softball players that were drafted in the National Pro Fastpitch annual college draft. The Longhorns' four-year starter behind the plate was selected with the 10th overall pick by the Chicago Bandits.
The Bandits, who posted a league leading record of 30-12 last season, drafted Willis in the second round with their third pick of the draft. Chicago's other draft picks included University of Tennessee shortstop Lindsay Schutzler, University of Arizona shortstop Kristie Fox and Notre Dame outfielder Stephanie Brown.
Willis' presence behind the plate earned the senior Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2006. During her junior campaign, Willis set Big 12 and school single-season records for putouts (792) and total chances (795). The Chandler, Ariz., native has garnered Second Team All-Big 12 accolades in each of the past two seasons. In addition to her stellar defense, Willis hit at a .281 clip during her first three seasons on the Forty Acres.
In 10 games this season, the senior backstop has posted a .367 batting average on 11 hits while tallying three RBI. Her defense has again been solid, as she has picked off three runners and thrown out the only two runners to attempt to steal a base this season.
Willis joins a Chicago squad that already boasts two former Big 12 Conference softball players. Nicole Trimboli (outfielder) and Peaches James (pitcher) are both University of Nebraska alumni.
Per NCAA regulations, Willis may not sign with the Bandits until the conclusion of the Longhorns season.
The NPF was created in 1997 and has operated under the names Women's Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women's Pro Softball League (WPSL) in the past.
