I Committed: Florida Atlantic University Gets Sara Harris

Sara Harris, a talented middle infielder with the Athletics Gold18U Tamborra, has declared her commitment to Florida Atlantic University (“FAU”), where she will join the Owls’ softball program starting in 2025.

This decision represents the culmination of a remarkable journey driven by passion, determination, and a love for the game.

Sara’s path to Florida Atlantic University began in September 2022, when she attended a camp at the university. It was here that she first experienced the high energy, competitiveness, and dedication exhibited by both the coaches and players. Her initial encounter with FAU’s softball program left a lasting impression, planting the seed for her future aspirations.

A key turning point occurred during a return visit to Boca Raton this summer. During this trip, Sara’s admiration for the program and the campus deepened, and she was drawn not only to the exceptional softball atmosphere but also to the unique campus and beautiful surrounding area. It became clear to Sara that FAU was more than just a school—it was a place where she could grow both athletically and academically.

One of the critical factors in Sara’s decision was the commitment and care shown by the coaching staff, including Head Coach Jordan Clark, Taylor Smartt, and Nicole Newman.She recognized that they valued their players not just as athletes but as individuals. Their dedication to the players as people, along with their drive to build something special, resonated deeply with Sara. It became apparent to her that FAU was where she wanted to pursue her collegiate softball career.

“The campus and overall area is everything I was hoping to find in my future school. The atmosphere that the coaches create and what they are doing for the program is something I knew I had to be a part of for my college career.”

In her announcement, Sara expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the Florida Atlantic Owls softball program. She acknowledged the role of her faith, coaches, teammates, family, and friends in supporting her throughout her journey.

“I am extremely excited to announce that I will be furthering my academic and athletic career at Florida Atlantic University! First and foremost, I would like to thank God—I am so incredibly thankful for everything that He has blessed me with. Next, I would like to thank Coach Jordan, Coach Smartt, and Coach Nicole for giving me this opportunity! I want to thank my teammates for pushing me and making me a better person every single day. Thank you to my dad, Coach Stacy, Coach Huff, and Coach Jimmy for the constant support—I am the player I am today because of you all. Lastly, I would like to thank my family and friends for their love, support, prayers, and sacrifices throughout this journey! Go Owls!”

Sara’s commitment to FAU is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in her dreams. Batting .354 this summer in the middle of the lineup, and was a consistent RBI producer for the Athletics Gold.

Coach Stacy Tamborra, who has played a significant role in Sara’s development, praised her as a hardworking, passionate, and versatile player.

“Sara is a vocal and mature leader with good instincts. She was very thorough in her communication with coaches throughout her recruiting process, shared her club coach. “It was very fun to see her opportunities begin to quickly unfold September 1st. Sara really loved FAU when she attended camp and Coach Clark invited her for a visit. The visit sealed the deal for Sara. She called me and said, ‘Coach, I’ve heard people say, “When you know, you know!” Well they were right. I just know this is where I’m supposed to be.”

Sara will join the Florida Atlantic University Owls in the fall of 2025, alongside fellow Athletics Gold teammate, Emma Grace Williams, who will pitch for the program. She will play middle infield and plans to study behavioral sciences and criminal justice.

— Regan Weekly/Extra Inning Softball

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