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Pearl River softball has added a bit of local flair to its roster with the addition of Poplarville’s Janna Peterson and Picayune’s Kallie Hunt.

Creating a pipeline to local schools is something Wildcat head coach Christie Meeks aims to do.

“I love adding kids from our district,” Meeks said. “Especially kids like Janna and Kallie who are known in their areas. I want them to come here, grow and shine just like they did in their own programs.”

While playing for the Maroon Tide, Hunt held an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .690 and a .440 slugging percentage.

“Pearl River just feels like home,” Hunt said. “I really like the college and the people that are here. It’s pretty awesome to be able to play for my hometown school. Since I was little, it was something that I wanted to do.”

Hunt profiles as a threat on the basepaths for the Wildcats and will put pressure on the opposing team’s defense with her speed.

“Kallie is going to be a fantastic runner for us and I think that is something that is going to be great for our program,” Meeks said. “She’s going to be an asset to our program.”

As a senior with the PHS Hornets, Peterson held a .265 batting average and an on-base plus slugging of .660. She also chipped in eight RBIs and one homer.

“Pearl River was a great fit because it is just close to home,” Peterson said. “I grew up watching the Wildcats play. We’ve been welcomed with open arms.”

Peterson will also be a valuable clubhouse presence for Pearl River.

“Janna has a light around her that is undeniable,” Meeks said. “I think that a lot of people are going to gravitate towards her because she is a great person. She’s a loyal kid who would run through a brick wall if you asked her to.”