South Raleigh News

NC State softball head coach Lindsay Leftwich announced the addition of two transfers, Hannah Church and Ellington Whitaker, to the program on Monday morning.

Church joins NC State after two seasons at Ohio State, where she played as a catcher and first baseman. She appeared in 85 games for the Buckeyes, recording 49 hits, 45 RBIs, 23 runs, 11 doubles, seven home runs, and three triples. She arrives in Raleigh with a career batting average of .246 and a .990 fielding percentage. Church was also a two-time OSU Scholar-Athlete and a 2024 Academic All-Big Ten honoree.

Leftwich commented on Church's addition: "Hannah Church offers a formidable presence at the plate and her consistent power production will play well in the ACC. Her experience facing high-level pitching in her time in the Big Ten has prepared her for success and will make her a valuable asset to our lineup. Beyond her athletic skills, her servant heart and leadership skills will undoubtedly inspire and elevate her teammates, on and off the field. I am so excited to have Hannah join the Pack!"

Whitaker transfers to NC State after spending two years at Baylor primarily as a catcher. She appeared in 24 games for the Bears with a career fielding percentage of 1.000. Whitaker was named to the 2023 Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team.

"Having recruited Ellington Whitaker previously during my time at LSU," said Leftwich, "I am thrilled that our paths can cross again. Ellington brings high-level catching skills that can shift the strike zone in our favor, and her offensive abilities are poised to shine in our lineup. I have no doubt that Ellington will be one of the hardest workers in the group, and her dedication will undoubtedly translate into great things. The Pack is so proud to have Ellington in red and white."