Niceville's Pruett signs with McNeese State

Niceville senior Rebekah Pruett, surrounded by friends and family, realized the fruition of a childhood dream last week.

After playing an instrumental piece in the Niceville girls’ golf team’s memorable run towards its first-ever state championship, Pruett celebrated more good news - her recent signing with the golf program at Division-I McNeese State University.

“It’s such a big blessing,” Pruett said. “God really answered some prayers for me there.”

Pruett’s decision to sign with McNeese State came shortly after taking an official visit just days after she helped the Eagles capture a regional title. Pruett said “it felt like home,” while on McNeese State’s Lake Charles, La., campus, and raved about the five courses at the disposal of Cowgirls’ golfers.

After meeting and speaking with Cowgirls coach Mike Fluty, who had observed Pruett’s performance at region first-hand, Pruett’s mind was made up and she became the second signee for McNeese State’s 2012-13 season.

“He strives for his athletes to be the best they can be,” Pruett said. “That’s what I want to do, I want to become the best golfer I can.”

Pruett was a Daily News first-team all-area selection in each of the past two seasons. Niceville coach Mitch Inness said the Cowgirls’ program will be getting one of the best he’s coached in Pruett.

“She was a four-year letter winner for us and in those four years she was part of 91 wins, zero losses and one tie,” Inness said. “That tells you what kind of talent she has as far as golf is concerned. She was the obviously the heart and soul of our state championship team being a the captain for two years.

“It’s very difficult when you have someone that’s been part of your program for four years, to watch them go off to college,” Inness added. “We don’t get to keep these girls. In Rebekah’s case, our loss is McNeese State’s gain.”

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