Georgia Southern Softball has signed two transfers, Valerie Combs and Madilyn Gillespie, to join the Eagles' roster for the 2025 season, as announced by head coach Sharon Perkins on Wednesday afternoon.
Combs joins the Eagles after spending her freshman season at Western Illinois appearing in 47 games making 44 starts. The Nashville, Ill., native served as the primary catcher as a true freshman. Combs finished the season with an OPS of .711 and led all freshman batting .250 on the season including 20 runs scored. She led the team in extra-base hits with 16 and added seven stolen bases.
"Valerie will be a great addition for us," Perkins said. "She brings energy, communication, and leadership skills. She works well with pitchers and we are excited about her strong arm behind the plate and solid bat."
Gillespie joins the Eagles after spending her first two seasons at Campbell where she earned 2023 Big South Freshman of the Year honors during her freshman campaign. The Bishop, Ga., native appeared in 58 games making 56 starts at first base in 2023. She hit .319 totaling 43 hits including six doubles and two triples. Gillespie was named Big South All-First Team and Big South All-Freshman Team in 2023.
As a sophomore, Gillespie appeared in 49 games starting 42 games switching between shortstop and third base during the 2024 season. She batted .269 in 104 at-bats, recorded 28 hits, scored 11 runs, drew 12 walks, four doubles, one triple, 12 RBIs, and stole seven bases. Gillespie compiled a .967 fielding percentage with 56 putouts and 63 assists
"Madi comes to us with two solid seasons under her belt," Perkins said. "She brings an experienced bat with power and can step in and fill the role of a corner infielder.
