Tennessee-Martin head softball coach Donley Canary didn’t have to go far to put the finishing touches on his roster for the upcoming 2007 season.

In fact, he didn’t even leave the Martin city limits to sign Westview High School’s Ashley Byrd.

The local product played shortstop, center field and pitched for Westview skipper J.B Suiter and travel team manager Steve Reynolds.

This past season Byrd earned all-district honors and was named to the all-district tournament team.

As a junior, Byrd claimed Westview’s Best Defense Award and was named to the All-District 13-AA team.

“Ashley is a strong defensive player, and can play both the infield and outfield positions,” Canary said. “She will begin her Skyhawk career in the outfield.”

The Skyhawk head coach said Byrd possesses a strong arm, quick feet and good athletic ability. “We will probably turn her around and put her on the left side of the plate to take advantage of her running ability.”

Canary said Byrd will provide the Skyhawks with a threat to steal bases.

“She gives is a threat of speed coming off the bench,” he said. “We lacked speed coming off the bench this past season.” Byrd said she decided to stay close to home at Tennessee-Martin for two reasons.

“I wanted to play softball here and UT Martin has a good nursing program.”