PRINCESS ANNE, Md. - As the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Softball team prepares for its upcoming season, head coach Sam Douglas announced the signing of four recruits who will join an experienced cast this season. The four signees hail from Delaware and New Jersey: MacKenzie Brown (Bayonne, N.J.); Daeshia Jones (Teaneck, N.J.); Kiana Peterson (Willingboro, N.J.); and Sara Jo Whaley (Laurel, Del.).

"These four ladies bring a wealth of success," Douglas stated. "I strongly believe their skills and knowledge help us in conference play."

Brown comes from Bayonne, N.J. where she was a two-sport student-athlete in softball and track. The two-time Hudson County Player of the Year recorded the most unassisted double plays at Bayonne H.S.

"UMES has the best academic program for what I want to go into and moving forward academics is the most important thing so that's why I chose it," Brown said to The Jersey Journal. "I want to get my behaviorist degree and go to grad school and work with autistic children."

In the fall, the four-time All-County selection will study in sociology/social work.

"Mackenzie has tremendous talent," Douglas added. "She's a solid contact hitter with strong defensive skills. She will make a big contribution to the team for years."

Jones is a four-year lettermen in three sports (softball, track, and volleyball). In softball, she was an All-County First Team selection and guided her squad to 11 wins last season.

"I want to be a complete team player," Jones added. "I want to make an impact so people will remember who I am."

The future veterinarian plans to major in animal & poultry science for the Lady Hawks.

"Jones is a superb athlete with exceptional speed," Douglas stated. "She's a lefty slapper with potential to go over the fence anytime."

Peterson arrives to UMES from Burlington County Institute of Technology (BCIT) where she was a four-time All-County selection. The three-time BCIT Most Valuable Player (MVP) was named to the Best Players In Babe Ruth League 2014 Edition.

"I want to get better every day," said Jones. "I am going to give my absolute best in practices and games while supporting my team no matter what."

The New Jersey Stars Program recipient will major in biology in the fall.

"Kiana has a passion for the game," Douglas added. "She comes from a softball family so her knowledge is a huge plus for our team."

Whaley reunites with junior Alexis Hudson (Laurel, Del.) from their time at Laurel H.S. where they guided the club to back-to-back Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association (DIAA) Championships. Additionally, the three-sport student-athlete won the 2011 World Series Championship with the Laurel Little League club team.

"I want to improve every year," said Whaley. "My personal goals are having a high batting average, near perfect fielding percentage, and win a MEAC title."

Currently, the National Honor Society recipient will study criminal justice.

"Sara has a winner's mentality," Douglas stated. "She was part of multiple championship teams and knows what it takes to get there."

The four recruits join 12 Lady Hawk returners, led by All-MEAC selection Vanessa Gomez (Belleville, N.J.).

For complete recaps, results and news of Hawk athletics, please visitwww.umeshawks.com .