Published: November 18, 2008 11:56 pm            

Helms signs with MSU

Boyd senior set to join tennis squad next year

CANNONSBURG — So far, Brooke Helms’ trips to Morehead State University came when she watched her older brother, Logan, play baseball in the high school regional tournament.

Now, MSU is about to become her home away from home.

Helms, a tennis standout at Boyd County High School, will join the Lady Eagles’ squad on a full scholarship next season.

“I’m so excited,’’ Helms said Tuesday afternoon during a signing ceremony in the BCHS library. “College tennis is really competitive. From what I’ve already seen, the players at Morehead always encourage each other. I’m looking forward to that a whole lot.’’

Morehead State coach Kevin Fulton recently watched Helms work out in Huntington and she subsequently made an official visit to MSU.

“I love the campus,’’ Helms said. “The girls on the tennis team are super nice. The girls and guys teams together act like a big family.’’

Her high school coach, Sharla Freeman, believes that Morehead came away a big winner in Helms’ decision.

“Brooke is a wonderful person,’’ Freeman said. “She had her mind set on college. She’s a great tennis player, but she has always wanted to use it as a way to an education. I am absolutely thrilled for her.’’

Helms plans to study pharmacy and become a fixture in the Lady Eagles’ lineup. MSU finished 7-14 last season, including a 3-7 mark in the Ohio Valley Conference.

“Coach Felton said I would probably play really high on the team,’’ Helms said. “I’m looking forward to getting into the weight training and workouts. My goal is to get stronger.’’

Helms advanced to the third round at the Kentucky High School Championships as a junior. She reached the regional singles final each of the past three years, including a title in 2007.

Freeman looks for Helms’ success to continue at Morehead State.

“Brooke wanted to get away from home but not too far,’’ Freeman said. “Morehead will be a great fit. I think she will be able to step in and play right away. Brooke has traveled and worked hard on her game for a long time.’’

Helms discovered the sport at age 12. Prior to that, she excelled in gymnastics before suffering a fractured knee cap.

“I started playing tennis for physical therapy,’’ Helms said. “It kind of took off from there.’’

Helms plans to attend some of Morehead’s matches this winter and offer her support for the team.

ROCKY STANLEY can be reached at rstanley@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2671.

        

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