JOHNSTON –- Courtney Mealing says she felt an instant connection to Francis Marion University and the Patriot players during her recruiting visit there.

So much so, that on the trip back home to Edgefield County she was already considering making a commitment to the school.

For Mealing, Strom Thurmond’'s all-time leading scorer, the two-hour drive had definitely been worth it.“

"As soon as I left I knew that I wanted to go there,”" she said after signing a national letter of intent on Wednesday to play college basketball for the Patriots. “"It felt good (to sign) today. After I took my visit it was pretty clear. The coach (Heather Macy) had called earlier in the season, but I wasn’t really worried about (college) at that point. I just really like everything about it.”"

The Patriots play in the Peach Belt Conference and are coached by Heather Macy. The team finished the 2008-09 season with an  overall record of 27-5 and 17-3 in conference play.

Strom Thurmond girls coach Jessica Parker said the FMU coaches are thrilled to be adding a player of Mealing’s caliber to the Patriot roster.
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"With their style of play, Courtney will fit right in with what they do,"” she said. “"(Coach Macy) said she was really excited about Courtney coming there."

Mealing averaged nearly 30 points per game in her senior season at Strom Thurmond.
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"I know that I am going to have to work harder and get stronger,"” Mealing said. "“I'’m going to have to get in the weight room and get stronger and faster. I am probably going to play (shooting) guard, but probably play some at the (point) too. I think I’'m more comfortable at the (shooting guard position) but if they need me to play the (point) that’s just fine.”"