Softball's Peyton Varela had a big day on Tuesday as she signed with Southeastern University, an NAIA school located in Lakeland, Fla. Varela will receive a full scholarship from the institution and will play for the Lady Fire's softball team starting this spring.

The Lady Cougar pitcher posted a 4.14 ERA, 27 strikeouts and three wins in three starts and 14 relief appearances in 2019. 

"This was my third year at Cleveland State and I truly don't know where I'd be without [head coach] Steve Jaecks over these years and [assistant coach Jennah McElheney] coming in this year," said Varela of her time as a Lady Cougar. "They both have guided me and helped me grow, not only as a softball player, but as a person as a whole. My collegiate softball experience has been full of ups and downs, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. Having two hip surgeries definitely took a toll on me physically and especially mentally, but I learned so much about myself going through that. To the girls on the team this year, I will miss you all so much. I look forward to keeping up with your games and seeing how successful you'll be. I'm so excited for this next journey… Cougs for life!"

Cleveland State congratulates Peyton on the full scholarship and wishes her the best of luck as she continues her softball career at Southeastern!

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