Beaufort’s Savannah Mullen upholds family connections with signing

Like her dad, Savannah Mullen has been a standout on the diamond throughout her Beaufort High career. But it was her mom that influenced her college decision.

The senior shortstop signed Thursday to continue her softball career at the College of Charleston, one of two Eagles who finalized their plans to compete at the next level. She was joined on stage by Rome Wallace, who will play baseball at Spartanburg Methodist.

“It’s a relief,” said Mullen, twice an all-state selection. “Now I don’t have to think about any more schools. I’m just really excited now because this was my No. 1 school. I’ve got it, and I’m happy.”

Mullen batted .349 for the Eagles last season with five doubles, three home runs and 21 RBIs. Her father, Scott, also starred at Beaufort High as a pitcher, eventually spending parts of four seasons in the major leagues. He also spent two years as the Eagles’ baseball coach.

College of Charleston, though, is where her mom went to school.

“She was a cheerleader, so that kind of pointed me there,” Mullen said. “And it’s close to home, and the campus is just amazing.”

The Cougars went 35-23 last season, reaching the semifinals of the Colonial Athletic Association tournament.

Wallace, an outfielder, gravitated to Spartanburg Methodist while playing travel ball for Southern Athletics. His coach there, Kevin Pucetas, also is pitching coach for the Pioneers.

Spartanburg Methodist is a two-year school, where Wallace hopes to attract attention from four-year programs that could use a seasoned transfer.

This story was originally published November 17, 2016 at 8:03 PM with the headline "Beaufort’s Savannah Mullen upholds family connections with signing."