Kay’Lee Justice, a senior softball player for King’s Fork High School, signed a letter of intent Thursday to attend and play for the Richard Bland College of William and Mary in the fall.

“They have a close-knit community,” Justice said. “All of the athletes support each other, and they are big on academics.”

Richard Bland College of William and Mary is located in Petersburg. Justice had another choice in mind for schooling but finally chose RBC.

“I originally wanted to go to Virginia Tech just for academics, but my coach sent me on a tour to Richard Bland, and I fell in love,” Justice said.

Her mother was thrilled with Justice’s choice. So was her coach, Richard Froemel, who said, “I hate to see any of my seniors go; I was happy for her.”

Kay’Lee was overwhelmed by the moment, surrounded by family and friends. “My mom told me to stay strong and believe in myself and if I do that I can make it anywhere,” she said.

Froemel said Justice is a well-rounded softball player and that the team will miss her leadership when she’s gone. In three games this week, Justice has accumulated three home runs and eight RBIs. Her versatility is among her greatest assets on the field.

“She can play the outfield, she can play the infield, she can pitch — she is an all-around player,” Froemel said.

Recalling her greatest moment at King’s Fork, Justice shared a game against Lakeland High School in which she hit two home runs, back-to-back, her second one a walk-off to win the game.

“That was the one that stood out in my mind,” Justice said. “I can never forget that one.”

Froemel agreed: “That was a big game for us in the conference tournament. She pulled two out, without a doubt.”

Justice also spoke of her time at King’s Fork High School and the memories she will have.

“I will remember my friends, my teammates and my coaches always having a positive attitude and supporting me,” she said.

Richard Bland College is not the last stop for Justice. She intends to further her education once leaving there.

“After Richard Bland, I plan on going to Virginia Tech and getting a bachelor’s in architecture and moving on from there,” she said.