Nov. 23, 2010

LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) - The UNLV softball program has received signed national letters of intent from Caitlin Klepper and Emilie Valadez to enroll at the university and play for the Rebels starting in the spring of 2012, head coach Pete Manarino announced Tuesday.

"We are excited to welcome both Caitlin and Emilie to our UNLV family," noted Manarino. "Caitlin is a strong left-handed pitcher with great potential that will help solidify our pitching staff. Emilie will bring great experience with her and is a good addition to our outfield and will help our line-up with her outstanding speed."

Klepper, a 5-10 pitcher from Kenniwick, Wash., will graduate from Southridge High School in 2011. She has lettered three times for the Suns softball team. During the past two years, she has helped her team to back-to-back Columbia Basin League championship titles. As a freshman, the squad finished second in regional play and fifth in the state tournament. She has been named to the CBL's First Team and team MVP each season. As a junior, she was tabbed to the all-area first team and all-state second team. She has also been selected the Tri-City Herald's Athlete of the Week and state athlete of the week twice. She plays club ball with the Washington Spirit.

Valadez, a 5-4 outfielder from Fontana, Calif., will graduate from Etiwanda High School in 2011. She has lettered twice for the Eagles softball team. She has helped the team to consecutive Baseline League championships in 2009 and 2010. The team also won the CIF-Southern Section Division 2 championships in 2009. She plays club ball with the So Cal Choppers. Previously, she played with the OC Batbusters, who won the 2010 Premier and ASA Nationals.