UPDATED WITH STORY: Central Catholic's Williams signs letter with Xavier

Amaya Williams is ready for a new career journey. Along the way, Williams will play softball for a newly formed team.

The Central Catholic senior signed a letter of intent Friday to attend and play softball for Xavier University of New Orleans.

Williams is Central Catholic's shortstop, and she's projected as a middle infielder for Xavier.

Xavier, which will soon begin its third season of intercollegiate softball competition, is one of three schools that looked at Williams. Xavier has something she was looking for.

"They have a really good pre-med program," Williams said. "That is what I am trying to go for. ...I am hoping to become a pediatric psychologist."

Another sort of psychology connection came up when Central Catholic coach Sunni Blanchard described Williams.

"She has an insane backhand," Blanchard said.

"She's strong, and strong-minded. She's dedicated. She works. ... She's humble. She's dedicated, and she's a leader. She's played a lot of hard softball."

Williams has one more season as an Eagle this spring before embarking on her college career.

“I feel good," Williams said. "I am really ready to start the season. We’re going to have a really good season. I think my last year here will be a big one.”

Friday's letter-signing was a family affair. Williams was joined at the table in the Central Catholic gym by parents Leon and Erica Williams, brother Edward, sister Alaysia and two nephews, 2-year-old Tony Comeaux Jr. and Jaiden Comeaux, 3 months.

Xavier's softball program finished its second season in May with a 21-30 record.

Two players from the NAIA Golden Nuggets are eligible to return after earning Red River Athletic Conference honors last spring. Sophomore pitcher Carina Chargois was a first team all-league selection after earning 14 of Xavier's 21 wins. Senior outfielder Chenai Keyes was named to the conference's Champions of Character team.