Lee County’s Caitlyn Lawton signs with Middle Georgia

LEESBURG — There is no place like home and for Lee County High School softball standout Caitlyn Lawton, the convenience of being a short trip from Leesburg played a big role in her decision.

The senior signed her letter of intent to play at Middle Georgia State University Wednesday morning in the Lee County Media Center in front of family and friends.

Lawton will be located less than two hours from home when she heads to Middle Georgia.

“It played a big role in it,” Lawton said of staying close to home. “It’s easy. I can come home and wash my clothes on the weekend if I want.”

Middle Georgia softball coach Ken Phillips made the drive down to be with Lawton for her signing. Phillips has been the coach of the Lady Knights for 15 years and just recently won his 400th career game.

“I was so excited he could come,” Lawton said. “I was texting him this morning like, ‘Are you gonna make it coach?’”

Phillips played a big role in Lawton’s decision to attend Middle Georgia.

“He is very laid-back,” she said. “I feel like he would do anything for me. It is also a smaller school so I won’t be overwhelmed.”

Lawton, who was a four-year starter and the leadoff hitter at Lee County, will continue to play outfield in college. She helped the Lady Trojans to the Region 1-AAAAAA title and also helped them advance to the second round of the Georgia High School Association state tournament.

In addition to Middle Georgia, Lawton also had interest from Chipola College in Marianna, Fla.

Lawton was part of the Xtreme Whippets 99 16U travel softball team that won the National Championship at the USFA World Series last summer. She hit .391 during the tournament.