Ankeny junior Aubrey Lensmeyer has verbally committed to play softball at South Dakota.
Lensmeyer announced her decision via social media on Wednesday.
“It was probably the hardest decision I have ever had to make,” said Lensmeyer. “I kept going back and forth, and it took me a while to really figure out exactly what I wanted. Ultimately, I went with my heart and where I see myself having the best education along with college and softball experience. I really like the atmosphere at USD. On my visit, we were able to hang with some of the girls that are on the team for a few days and experience what it was like to be a student-athlete. I went to a football and volleyball game, attended practice and hung out in the dorms at Coyote Village.
“It was very fun, and I felt very comfortable. Their facilities and coaches were great, and it felt like home,” she added.
As a sophomore, Lensmeyer helped the Hawkettes to a 31-8 record and their first trip to the state tournament since 2015. She batted .276 with two home runs, six doubles and 15 RBIs.
As a pitcher, Lensmeyer went 1-3 with a 3.82 ERA and three saves. She earned all-conference honorable mention.
Lensmeyer said the Coyotes recruited her as a versatile player.
“I am being looked at as a hitter, pitcher and outfielder, which is something that meant a lot to me,” she said. “I really wanted to be able to contribute in all parts of the game–in the circle, on the field and also at the plate!”
Lensmeyer’s decision ends a recruiting process that started a long time ago.
“I have been going to a lot of schools’ softball camps, meeting coaches, and getting a feel for their programs over the last few years,” she said. “After Sept. 1, I was talking more seriously with a few of those coaches and ultimately decided to choose between these schools that we had narrowed it down to.”