Story by Philip Senff, NPCC Sports Information CoordinatorMegan Hernandez-Belew has signed a Letter of Intent to continue her softball and academic career with Midland University, in Fremont. Belew, an outfielder and captain for the Knight’s softball team the last two seasons, helped lead NPCC to a 16-29 record in 2019 and a 4-8 record in 2020 due to a shortened season.Belew, of Broomfield, Colo., finished her career with the Knights hitting .367 with 52 hits, six doubles, 17 RBI and 16 stolen bases in the 55 games she played. She also finished with 73 putouts for the Knights on defense.“Playing at North Platte Community College has taught me how to become a better person, and because of that I’ve become a better player,” said Hernandez-Belew. “Hard work and dedication will always beat out talent. This is an important lesson I’ve learned through this program. This program does community service, which teaches the team how to work hard and how to work hard together. I’ve made so many great memories over the past two years. I have made lifelong friends because of this program, and I am so very thankful for that.”&nbsp;Hernandez-Belew said she is excited to become a part of such a competitive and successful program at Midland University.“I am very thankful that I get to continue my education while still playing the sport I love,” said Hernandez-Belew. “Midland University has a great education program, and I can’t wait to be a part of that as well. Midland will be a great fit for me, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. I am very excited to bring all the life lessons I’ve learned at North Platte Community College to help me through my time at Midland University.”&nbsp;NPCC head softball coach Janelle Higgins said Hernandez-Belew is the type of athlete she wishes she could keep for two more years.“Megan has grown into a more confident and vocal leader here at NPCC,” Higgins said. “She has been our captain for the last two years even though she was very quiet when she arrived. When I had her start giving future Knights and their parents campus tours, she definitely found her voice.”Higgins said Hernandez-Belew’s work ethic, grit and determination set her above and beyond other athletes while also setting an example for them and encompassing the culture that NPCC softball strives to attain.“Those traits alone will take her far at Midland University, but even farther in life,” said Higgins. “We wish Megan the very best and will miss her endless Spongebob quotes and sense of humor.”

NPCC Knight continuing career at Midland University