It was a special day for Elizabethton senior Loran Campbell Tuesday as she inked her name with Bryan College.
In front of family and friends inside the EHS commons area, Campbell made it official with the Lady Lions for whom she will play basketball.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics school competes in the Appalachian Athletic Conference and is located in Dayton, Tenn. Campbell said during her visit to the university she knew that the school was right for her.
“It was a really great school when I went and visited,” said Campbell. “I went down and watched a basketball game, and their style of play fits me. I think that it is the best option for me.”
Campbell competed for the Lady Cyclones in basketball her junior and senior years. During her junior year, Campbell joined Elizabethton at the state basketball tournament.
“It was a great experience,” said Campbell. “The girls were all great. Senior Sarah Bradley was there, and she encouraged us all. There is nothing like experiencing state.”
During her stint with the Lady Cyclones, Campbell played under head coach Barry Johnson her senior season. Johnson said Campbell is a great player that is dedicated to the sport.
“She is very coachable and always there for the team,” said Johnson. “I am very proud of her and glad she will be able to play ball at the next level.”
Basketball is not the only sport the future Lion competed in at Elizabethton. Campbell also played as a goalie for the Lady Cyclones soccer team.
“We were fortunate to come out for the team when she did,” said head soccer coach Bill McClay. “She was a great goalkeeper. Certainly one of the best female players that we have had here. She showed us a lot of hard work and dedication. And if she shows that type of determination at college she will do well.”
The Lady Lions basketball team is coached by sixth-year coach Jason Smith. Last season, Bryan College went 18-15 overall and 12-10 in the AAC.