A defensive mainstay of Lakeland High School’s varsity field hockey program for the last four years has found her college home.

Senior goalkeeper Erin Bradshaw signed to attend and play field hockey for Liberty University during a ceremony on Monday morning in the Lakeland High School library.

“I’m just happy that I get to play at a Division I level and go into a school that, I mean, is amazing all around, and just to be a part of that is going to be a new experience,” Bradshaw said.

Years ago, field hockey was not really part of her plans.

“At first, I thought I was going to play softball, but I decided on field hockey my freshman year, and ever since then, I’ve really pushed myself to try and play at the college level,” she said.

Those seeing this goal reached on Monday included her family, friends and coach.

“She’s worked hard to get there, and she’s put in the time, and now it’s going to be exciting to be at that next step in her career,” said Peggy Bradshaw, Erin’s mother.

“I want her to be successful and happy,” said Erin’s father, Dale Bradshaw. “If she’s happy, I’m happy. That’s the way I look at it.”

Erin shared why she is happy with Liberty.

“When I was looking at different schools, I would go, and I’d visit their team, and stuff like that, but when I really went to Liberty, it’s just, the biggest thing that stuck out to me is they played for a higher purpose — not only just to win games and just to keep competing at a high level, but they did it for a purpose of putting God in there, and that was just something that I really want to be a part of,” she said.

Lady Cavaliers coach Cortney Parker was excited to see her first player sign since taking over as head coach.

“It’s really exciting, and I’m very happy for Erin,” Parker said. “She’s really worked hard the past five years for Lakeland, so she deserves it, and I’m proud of her.”

The coach confirmed the Lady Flames look to use Bradshaw in the goal.

“She’s going to bring a lot,” Parker said. “She’s seen the top competition in the state of Virginia, which is good, it’s good for her, that’s good experience. And it was good this year that she saw a lot of action.”

Bradshaw said she wants to major in zoology.

The Lady Flames’ roster included two Lakeland alums this season — Megan Johnson and Summer Parker.