Prep Signings: Springdale's Roach, Turner, Counts sign letters of intent

Baseball

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Springdale High's Andrew Roach signed Wednesday to continue his baseball career at Cowley College (KS).

Roach signs with Cowley College

Springdale High senior Andrew Roach signed a letter of intent Wednesday to continue his baseball career at Cowley College in Kansas.

As the Red'Dogs' primary starter, Roach walked just 10 and struck out 84 in 67 2/3 innings while finishing his senior season with a team-best 2.37 earned run average. Roach hit .341 for Springdale at the top of the order, driving in 19 runs to go with a pair of home runs. He also was a viable threat on the basepaths, stealing 21 bases in 24 attempts.

"He did a good job this year. We know he's a good player, I'm just glad he's getting the chance to go to the next level," Springdale coach Scott Johnson said. "He's very excited. His dream is to move on with his baseball career. He's a competitor."

Roach plans to explore a major in sports medicine.

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Springdale High's Tyler Turner singed a letter of intent to play baseball at Allen Community College (KS).

Turner signs on with Allen CC

Red'Dogs pitcher Tyler Turner signed on to join the Allen (KS) Community College baseball program Thursday in Bulldog Gymnasium.

Turner worked 37 innings last season, allowing 42 hits and striking out 34. Turner closed his final season with the Red'Dogs with a 3.29 ERA, helping Springdale reach the state tournament.

"He had a great second half especially," Johnson said. "He got sick with pneumonia and was out about three weeks, but when he came back and got healthy he was phenomenal. His last 3-4 starts of the year he threw it well and his stuff was excellent."

Softball

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Springdale High's Bethany Counts signed a letter of intent Wednesday to play softball at North Arkansas College.

Counts inks with NorthArk

Lady Red'Dogs senior Bethany Counts signed a letter of intent to continue her softball career at North Arkansas College Thursday.

Counts hit .224 for the Lady Red'Dogs and finished the season with a .919 fielding percentage.

"She was really able to use softball to help her through some hard times. She had a great attitude and a great work ethic," Springdale coach Ashlee Friend said. "She had good speed and was the kind of all-around good kid you want on your team."

Counts, who battles alopecia, will travel to join the Team USA 19U softball team in the Netherlands in an international tournament. She plans to major in elementary education.

-- Scottie Bordelon • @NWAScottie

Sports on 05/26/2017

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