JOHNSON, Vt.-The Northern Vermont University-Johnson women's basketball program and Head Coach Greg Eckman announced their first commitment for the 2020-2021 season.

Gabriella Wardwell has signed the necessary paperwork and committed to Northern Vermont University-Johnson for the fall of 2020. A native of Springfield, Vermont and a member of the Springfield High School Varsity Girls basketball program, Wardwell plans to pursue a degree in Education when arrived at NVU-Johnson. 

"My plan is to pursue a degree in education because my goal is to become an elementary school teacher." Said Wardwell. "I chose NVU-Johnson because it felt very welcoming. Coach Eckman played a huge role in my decision and he made it super easy to feel wanted and welcomed. Aside from athletics, the university is a place I feel like I'll get a great education to help me prepare for my future."

During Wardwell's junior year she was selected to the Marble Valley League Second-Team and earned Athlete of the Week. This past season, Wardwell earned MVL First-Team honors and was selected to the VBCA North/South All-Star game. 

Springfield High School Girls Varsity Basketball Head Coach Lester Peck is excited to see the growth of Wardwell throughout her college career and will miss her leadership in the locker room at SHS. "Gabby is an emotional and enthusiastic leader in the locker room and on the floor," said Peck. "She is a tremendous rebounder and continues to improve her overall game.  She has been a real pleasure to be around and an excellent example of the student athlete Springfield High School strives to put out.  The coaches and fans at NVU-Johnson will enjoy getting to know Gabby and watching her play."

In the classroom Wardwell earned student of the month during her senior year and most improved in DE English and Psychology.

"We are extremely excited to have Gabby joining the NVU-Johnson women's basketball program," said Eckman. "Gabby is a strong presence in the paint and has been well coached throughout her high school career.  The coaching staff and I look forward to working with her and to see her development as a post player in the NAC."

Wardwell is excited to join the Badger family and is ready to compete on the court for Coach Eckman. "I'm so excited to play for Coach Eckman. I can tell he really connects with his players and does what's best for them and the team. I'm excited to see how far he pushes me as a player and excited for him to help me grow as a player," Wardwell added. "It's such an honor to become a part of the Badger Athletics Family. I'm excited to play with a new team and make friendships with my future teammates. I just feel like being a badger means becoming part of a new family and I'm excited to become a part of it all."

The NVU-Johnson women's basketball program plans to announce additional commitments in the near future.