Southeast Bulloch’s Effie Manahan, seated center, is joined by family members and SEB coach Aimee Civalier (standing) as Manahan signs a letter of intent to play softball for the University of South Carolina. 

Manahan starred for the Lady Yellow Jackets in each of her four seasons and has been named to All-Region squads on three occasions. Manahan was also selected to the GHSA Class AAA All-State team this season. Now, she’s off to Columbia.

“It’s very exciting,” said Manahan. “So many girls have the goal of getting to play in college. I’m thrilled to be able to go to a great school like South Carolina and really excited that I get to continue my softball career.”

A catcher for her first three seasons at SEB, Manahan transitioned to shortstop this year. She is still unsure of exactly where she’ll fit into the Gamecocks’ plans, but her offensive numbers — which led SEB in nearly every relevant category — promise to make her valuable wherever she is used.

“I think that I could be a good utility player, but I’ll do whatever I’m asked,” said Manahan. “The main thing that (South Carolina coaches) wanted were hitters. I’ll keep working on my hitting and hopefully I’ll be able to help out.”