SARNIA – Added strength up the middle at two key positions with our first recruit.
America Shepherd has officially committed to Head Coach Greg Shortt and the Lambton Women’s Softball Program for the 2026 season, and beyond.
Shepherd is the first commitment in the 2026 recruiting cycle for Shortt and company.
“I’m really happy, and there’s definitely been some tears leading up to this,” said Shepherd. “I’m looking forward to making new friends, meeting new people, and seeing where softball brings me and how much I can continue to develop while helping the team be successful.”
“I’ve worked really hard to get here, and I’ve got nobody else to thank but my sister and my dad. My dad coached me all through hardball, and given that this is only my third year in softball, I feel that this is a big accomplishment for me to get to where I am from where I started.”
Shepherd, a five-foot-eight catcher and second baseman, comes to Lambton College from Delhi, Ontario, and Holy Trinity Catholic High School.
On the diamond, Shepherd plays for the Brantford Bobcats, and will be suiting up with their U19 Program this coming season. Last season, Shepherd and her U17 team fell just short of advancing to Nationals, and she has her sights set on heading to the East Coast this time around to compete for a national crown.
Shortt and the rest of the Lions coaching staff are excited about the versatility and potential that Shepherd brings to the lineup moving forward.
“America brings a high level of versatility and a genuine passion for softball that will be a great fit for our team culture,” said Shortt. “We’re looking forward to having her join our squad, and we can’t wait to see her continue to grow in our program, both as a person and as a player.”
Shortt also added that Shepherd’s ability to play virtually anywhere in the field gives the team flexibility with its defensive lineups. Shepherd’s primary positions of catcher and second base will help to shore up the team’s defense up the middle while adding depth to a pair of key positions.
Academically, Shepherd will be enrolled in the Paramedic Program at Lambton College.
On the field, Shepherd’s U15 coaches gave her a nickname that has stuck in the years since.
Freakishly strong bean pole.
As she gears up to make the transition to collegiate softball, Shepherd is looking to prove that moniker to be true with the Lions. When she was asked what Lambton fans can expect to see from her on the diamond come September, it’s easy to see why she earned that nickname.
“Nothing but power and dedication,” added Shepherd. “I’m full of power, full of energy, and I’m always ready to do what I can to help my team get the win.
Welcome to The Den, America!
For more information, or for any media inquiries within Lambton College Athletics, please contact:
Tyler Bennett
Lambton College Sports Information & Marketing Coordinator
tyler.bennett@lambtoncollege.ca