A burnt orange Texas Longhorns flag served as that reminder.
Now, the next time the 2023 softball prospect steps into her room, the flag no longer represents a dream being chased but rather one that has been achieved.
On Thursday evening, Hunter verbally committed to the Texas Longhorns, fulfilling a childhood dream.
"When I was about 7 or 8, shortly after I started playing softball, I knew I wanted to compete at the highest level," Hunter said. "I have played at the highest level ever since and the standards I set for myself really played a role in my development as an athlete and even as a person. I've been dreaming of playing at Power 5 school since I was 12, and it's been what I've worked for ever since."
Hunter has been an absolute force on the softball diamond.
Last season as a sophomore for the Panthers, Hunter crushed the ball hitting .649 with five triples, nine doubles, 11 home runs and drove in 51 runs in 30 games.
"Representing SPX softball is huge for me as well as for the program," Hunter said. "This program is something special and the environment helped me in so many ways, like improving my leadership skills as well as the mental aspect of the game. The environment that SPX softball gives to its athletes is truly unique, and with my faith being a huge part of my journey, it has helped me grow in my relationship with God as well as with the people around me. I cannot thank SPX softball enough for the role that they played in my athletic and personal development in my time at St. Pius X."
Back to the other shade of orange.
For Hunter, the junior was sold on the Longhorns the moment she "stepped on campus" and "fell in love".
"The whole atmosphere was amazing, and I developed a good relationship with the coaches and the players on the team," Hunter said. "I love absolutely everything about it, and I felt like that was the best place for me to improve as an athlete and continue my career."
Then, of course, once she arrives on the 40 acres, Hunter will most likely be playing SEC softball.
"I'm beyond excited," Hunter said. "The move to the SEC is huge for Texas, and I couldn't be more excited to be on the big stage."
By Bradley Collier
