Beall sisters sign with Radford

Jason Simcoe / Culpeper Star Exponent
Published: November 29, 2007

At first, Michelle and Nichole Beall were overwhelmed. It seemed like every day a new coach called wanting the sisters to play college softball.

But when Radford coach Mickey Dean called, it all made sense. The girls knew where they were headed.

"We've known the coach there for a couple years or so," Nichole said. "We've had the opportunity to work with him and see his coaching style."

The Beall twins, both multiple-time all-district honorees for Culpeper County High School, have signed national letters of intent to continue their softball careers for Radford University next year. According to Michelle, it was all about the man in charge.

"It never crossed my mind until Mickey came along," she said. "We wanted a coach that we know would push us."

The girls have met Dean several times over the last few years at various summer tournaments and camps. Given the chance to continue their careers under his tutelage, they were eager to sign up.

And Dean was excited to have them. He expects big things.
"With (Michelle's) diverse experience at playing several positions … she will make an immediate impact," Dean said in a press release. "…With her athletic ability and strong desire to be the best, we feel that Nichole has a bright future in this game."

The pair know that they have their work cut out for them. While they're both highly-competitive, the college game is a big jump. But Nichole says the sisters are ready for the challenge.

"You'll have people who are more serious, people who are fighting for positions rather than coming out here after school and having fun," she said. "It'll be harder. We're going to have to work harder."

The sisters have both started for the Blue Devils since their freshman seasons. Michelle, who plays catcher and corner, has twice been named second team all-district, after her freshman and junior seasons.

Nichole, primarily a shortstop, has been all-district all three years, including a first-team distinction as a junior. She was also named the team's top offensive player in 2006 and the best all-around player in 2007.

Both girls are also successful basketball players, but said their hearts lie on the softball field. When it came time to focus on one sport or the other this year, the choice was easy.
"I love softball," Michelle said.

With the stress of a college decision out of the way, the girls have turned their focus towards this spring. They've played in summer and fall leagues to keep their skills sharp, and workout every day after school.

They want to go out in style.

"I want us to go far," Michelle said. "I want us to go all the way."

Jason Simcoe can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 166 or