Bartlett, Tn   -The Bartlett High School library was full Wednesday afternoon as friends, mentors, and teammates joined together to celebrate with Senior Stella Gill as she signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer for Union University.

Indeed, it was a large gathering of supportive teammates because Gill, ever the consummate competitor, has shown the unique dedication in her four years at Bartlett to being what is becoming increasingly rare in high school: being a three sport student-athlete. Competing in softball, basketball, and soccer, Stella has distinguished herself as a leader and a fierce competitor.

It was a feeling shared by all in attendance and one expressed strongly by Bartlett Head Coach Robby Midyett.

”When people go back to look at stats, many times defenders like Stella may get overlooked because it’s not the most heralded position. People tend to look for number of goals scored and other offensive numbers but you’ve got to have great defense to be successful. When I look back on our season, on our defense, I look back and see Stella. She’s always been a hard worker and a mentor to younger players. I know she’ll be successful at Union.”

Amid the excitement, Stella was taking it all in stride. “This is just a huge blessing.” she said. “I’m really thankful for this opportunity.”