LUMBERTON, NC – Robeson Community College (RCC) has stepped up to the plate and hit its first double with the signing of two standout athletes from Lumberton Senior High School. In a milestone announcement, RCC proudly welcomes Jayla Hunt and Leea Wilkins as the first-ever commits to the college’s new softball program, which is set to take the field in 2026.

This “double-header” signing marks the beginning of an exciting new era for athletics at RCC. The addition of softball expands the college’s growing athletic offerings and creates new opportunities for student-athletes across Robeson County and beyond to represent their community at the collegiate level.

Leading off for RCC is Jayla Hunt, a senior at Lumberton Senior High School and a native of Lumberton, North Carolina. Hunt, a talented utility player known for her leadership and drive, becomes RCC softball’s first official commit, making history as the program’s inaugural signee. In addition to continuing her athletic career, Hunt plans to pursue a degree in Nursing at RCC.

Batting second in this historic lineup is Leea Wilkins, also a senior at Lumberton Senior High School. Wilkins, another hometown standout, joins the program as a skilled utility player with a strong arm and consistent performance both in the field and at the plate. Wilkins plans to pursue a degree in Surgical Technology at RCC.

Head Coach Jai Deese, who was named to lead the program earlier this year, expressed her excitement over signing the first two athletes in RCC softball history. “This is such a special moment for our program and our college,” said Coach Deese. “Jayla and Leea are paving the way for future players and setting the tone for what RCC softball will stand for, hard work, integrity, academic excellence, and community pride. I couldn’t have asked for a better pair of first commits.”

As construction of the roster continues, Coach Deese is focused on building a program grounded in teamwork, academic achievement, and community connection. Robeson County has long been home to talented young athletes, and the creation of the RCC softball program provides a new pathway for them to compete close to home while pursuing their academic and professional goals.

With Hunt and Wilkins leading off, Robeson Community College has officially rounded first base on its journey to launch the softball program and the excitement is only just beginning. More announcements will be shared as additional commitments are made.

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For media inquiries, please contact Courtney Jacobs, Executive Director of Governance and Marketing, at 910-272-3231 or cjacobs@robeson.edu.