Former Dawson County High School Lady Tiger standout softball player Jenna Abbott will continue her career at Auburn University next season.

Abbott led her high school team to the state playoffs last season to complete her stellar career at Dawson County.

She will now continue her career in the Southeastern Conference.

Abbott said she is excited to begin this new chapter in her athletic career.

"I am very excited to have the opportunity to play at the next level. I've put in a lot of hard work to get to this point, but of course there is some anxiety about the unknown, but you have to go and give it your best shot. I chose Auburn because I fell in love with the campus the first time I was there. The proximity to home as compared to other schools made Auburn more appealing, as well," she said.

Abbott said that she looks forward to putting her talents up against some of the best in the nation.

"The players in the SEC are arguably some of the best in the country, many of which I have either played with or against in past travel ball experiences," she said.

Abbott said that she looks forward to helping her college team in any capacity available, whether that be from the pitcher's mound or not.

"From what I understand, there are three pitchers returning from last year's team and two incoming freshmen for the 2013 class. I will contribute in any way that I can to help the team win, whether it be pitching, playing first base, or being a designated hitter," she said.

Abbott will major in healthcare services administration at Auburn University, one of the few schools that offer an undergraduate degree in the field.

She said that she has been keeping in shape with conditioning and workouts until her college workouts get underway.

"I strength train three times a week, focusing on my core and legs. In addition, I run a lot of short sprints and do a little long distance for conditioning. At least once a week I meet with my pitching coach and work on mechanics. I also try to swing the bat some during the week," she said.

Once in Alabama, Abbott said Dawsonville will still be in her heart, due to the close relationships and friendships that she has formed over the years.

"I loved playing for Coach [Jimmy] Pruett. He is such a great mentor and role model and he always adds insight to the game. He tries his best to help the team succeed. You can tell that he loves coaching and has a passion for softball. But you can also joke around with him and have a good time. My high school experience wouldn't have been as great if it weren't for Coach Pruett.

"I will miss my friends that I have grown up with and all of the memories and fun times that we shared. I will also miss the ‘small-town-bond' that comes with DCHS, because everyone knows everyone. I can only hope that I get professors that are like some of my teachers that I had at DCHS," she said.