HICKORY, N.C. — The Catawba Valley Community College softball program made history on Thursday when Gionna Merhtens signed to continue her collegiate career at Norfolk State University, becoming the first NCAA Division I signee in Red Hawks softball history.

Merhtens, a shortstop and second baseman, has delivered one of the most productive seasons in program history during the 2026 campaign. Appearing in 33 games, she's recorded a .417 batting average, 40 hits, six doubles, six home runs and 39 RBIs, while posting a .464 on-base percentage and .667 slugging percentage. Her offensive impact, combined with her defensive versatility, has made her a cornerstone of the Red Hawks lineup.

Catawba Valley head softball coach Mickey Bolick emphasized Merhtens' journey and development at the junior college level, noting that she exemplified the purpose of the program.

"'G' has meant a lot to us for two years. She is the definition of what a junior college softball program should do," Bolick said. "She came in injured, took advantage of the opportunity and is now going to be our first-ever Division I signee from here in softball. That says a lot. She probably did all of that at about 85 percent of what she can do, and we're all excited to see what she does at the next level."

For Merhtens, the opportunity to continue playing at the Division I level represents both a personal milestone and a moment of gratitude.

"I'm excited. I'm glad I was given an opportunity to come here to CVCC because otherwise I would have probably been done playing softball," Merhtens said. "I am grateful to coach Mickey (Bolick), Kendall (Settlemyre) and (Addison) Yoder, and coach Tatjana (Matthews) at Norfolk State. It is a big accomplishment for me personally."

Merhtens also acknowledged the importance of family support on signing day, adding that having her mother, who traveled in from California, being present made the moment even more meaningful.

"I'm glad my mom got to be here," she said. "It was a little stressful getting everyone here, but I'm glad they made the time to come here."

Reflecting on her time with the Red Hawks, Merhtens highlighted the team culture that carried the program through challenges.

"I think last year was a hard season, and it hasn't always gone our way," she said. "We always keep our heads up and treat each other like family. I think that's the important part."

Merhtens' signing marks a significant milestone for CVCC softball and underscores the continued growth of the program as it develops student-athletes capable of competing at the NCAA Division I level. She will join a Norfolk State team competing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, continuing both her academic and athletic career.

Merhtens is the fourth overall four-year signing for the Red Hawk softball program. She joins alumni Jillian Jones (UVA-Wise), Grace Andrews (Carolina University) and Kameron Bolick (Erskine College) as members of the program have gone on to sign with four-year colleges and universities.