John A. Logan College head softball coach Bruce Jilek added depth to his catching ranks last month with the announced signing of Chester High School product, Megan Atchison.

The two-time River to River All-Conference receiver will vie for playing time as a freshman next fall. As a junior, Atchison batted .397, up 62 points from her sophomore season (a more than respectable .335). In the summer league, Atchison hit .407 with a .500 on-base percentage and a .637 slugging percentage.

“I think I’ve improved a lot since my freshman year,” Atchison said. “Most of my playing time has come behind the plate, but I am comfortable playing second base and shortstop, too. Wherever the team needs me the most, I am willing to play.”

The senior said she is familiar with some of the current Logan players through high school and summer league competition.

“I’ve played against Nicole Cheek and Mandi Kellerman (Pinckneyville grads), as well as Celci Mueller (Murphysboro). I looked at a couple of other schools like Rend Lake and Greenville, but felt Logan was the best fit for me. I’m very excited about the opportunity to show what I can do.”

Atchison had another reason to like Logan. Her cousin, Nicole Search, a Chester grad, was a standout on the volleyball team with the Lady Vols.

“I think Megan will push for playing time as a freshman. She has the tools to succeed,” Jilek said. “As long as she continues to work hard, she will make progress.”