LAPLACE — St. Charles Catholic High School senior Caroline Julian signed a binding letter of intent to join the University of Louisiana at Monroe Warhawks softball team for the 2018-2019 season Monday during a ceremony at the high school.

Julian was joined by her parents, Thomas and Lisa Julian, head softball coach Ty Monica, Athletic Director Frank Monica and teammates from the Lady Comets softball team as she signed the letter.

Signing day was a long time coming for Julian, who cultivated a love for softball at the age of 7 and has played shortstop and middle infield for SCC since eighth grade.

“This is a dream I’ve been chasing all my life,” Julian said. “I’m excited to finally put it on paper.”

Playing college softball was always in the cards; the only question was which school she’d call home.

Other colleges took an interest in Julian during the recruiting process, but ULM was the first to reach out to her with an offer.

Julian said her decision to attend the university was also based upon its beautiful campus, solid academic reputation and in-state scholarship opportunities.

Ty Monica has seen Julian’s strength of character shine through on the field, and he believes she will strive for success no matter what environment she’s in.

“Caroline’s best attribute is her competitive spirit,” Monica said. “No matter what it is, whether it be at practice or in an event, she always wants to do her best, not only for herself but also for her team.”

Julian is a well-rounded student athlete, currently gearing up for winter basketball and having recently ended a successful volleyball season, but softball has always been her favorite sport.

She’s played softball for school and travel teams and has been named an All River Parishes Softball Player and an All District Softball Player.

While balancing athletics, she’s also performed exceptionally well academically and has served as a model to other students, according to Dr. Courtney Millet, director of admissions, instruction and institutional advancement.

“She’s a wonderful student athlete who serves as a model to other students in faith,” Millet said. “Being well rounded and maintaining her grades while playing all these sports says a lot about her character.”

Julian said her favorite aspect of participating in athletics has been learning discipline and teamwork while forming lifetime friendships.

She’s looking forward to college and leaning toward studying pharmacy while she plays softball, though she can see herself being successful in various career paths.