CLINTON, Iowa - Ashford's softball program made some noise on the recruiting front this week, signing a pair of Southeastern Community College transfers in Kaitlin Welch of Bettendorf and Bre Gibson of Davenport for the upcoming season. Welch comes to Ashford as a corner infielder to play first and third base while Gibson is a right-handed pitcher.

The commitments represent the first of AU Head Coach Kyle Yore's class as the Saints lost just one senior from last season in Davenport native Jamie Gillespie, the first player in NAIA history to slug two grand slams in one inning.

"Both are extremely talented and we're excited to have their experience on our roster," Yore said. "Kaitlin swings a powerful stick as a corner infielder that will contribute to the lineup and Bre has solid composure on the mound that will add to the depth of our pitching staff."

Gibson began her high school career at Davenport West, the same high school as Gillespie, before transferring to Assumption High School. Welch was a graduate of Bettendorf High School and helped Southeastern (West Burlington) to a berth at the NJCAA Div. 1 National Championships in St. George, Utah, last year.

Both were selected as Second Team Region XI-B Iowa Community College Athletic Conference picks as the Blackhawks rolled to conference and district crowns during their stints at Southeastern.

The good friends were likely to attend the same school together, with both saying they chose to attend Ashford over Iowa Wesleyan College. Welch and Gibson already have plans to be roommates this fall and are education majors.

Click here to view additional photos from Welch and Gibson's signing-day ceremony (Click AU, 2009-10 and follow Signing Day Gallery II)