West Chicago's Rovtar picks Mississippi State

Chrissie Rovtar warmed up to the southern hospitality in Starkville, Miss., real quick.

"Everybody makes you feel so welcome," she said, "they say hi to you even if they don't know you."

That was among the many selling points for the West Chicago senior, who recently committed to play softball at Mississippi State.

Bulldogs coach Jay Miller's hometown is Aurora. West Aurora senior pitcher Stephanie Becker, a former summer ball teammate of Rovtar's, already committed to Mississippi State and will room with Rovtar.

"Their coach really stresses academics," said Rovtar, who will major in kinesiology with thoughts of becoming a physical therapist. "I appreciate that."

Rovtar hit .335 with 4 homers last year, helping lead West Chicago to a 24-9 record, DuPage Valley conference championship and regional title. She also considered DePaul and Lake Forest for softball. She said Mississippi State plans to get her in at first base, catcher and third base with the hope of getting her big bat in the lineup.