Pair of Lemoore's best athletes, sign with colleges to extend their playing days

The two teenagers signed their letters amidst family, friends, and school officials Thursday afternoon – once school was out – in the Lemoore High School Event Center lobby. The two, softball standout Madison Wallace and two-time West Yosemite League wrestling champion and two-time state qualifier Jacob Gonsalves, were all smiles as they put ink to paper and signed with their respective colleges.

As a sophomore, Wallace initially earned a scholarship offer from Detroit Mercy, a Division I program, but as she neared the end of her playing days in Lemoore decided to accept an offer from Fresno State, a perennial powerhouse in college softball.

Gonsalves, with his future coach in attendance, will relocate to Redding, California, the home of NAIA’s Simpson College, where he will soon become a Redhawk wrestler. Simpson’s coach, Rodney Forseth, was impressed with the talented wrestler. “He’s worth it,” said the six-year Redhawk coach. “We’re building a program with hard work and good people, not necessarily in that order.”

Gonsalves had good reasons to choose Simpson. “I chose Simpson because I’ve known Coach Forseth for two or three years. I’ve always stayed in contact with him. I really like him, I like what he does with the program, and the school is such a great school. Growing up in a Christian background, it fits perfectly. It’s a Christian school, and it’s just where it’s at – in the mountains. You can’t beat that,” said Gonsalves.

The affable high school senior said he plans to study political science or sociology and wants to serve his country as a military officer.

Wallace is no slouch when it comes to athletics. She’s been playing traveling softball since she was nine years old and has been a standout player for the Tigers since putting on a varsity uniform as a freshman.

“I wanted my family to be able to watch me play,” she said, explaining her decision to remain close to home. “Detroit is a great school. I just wanted to do what I think was best for me.” She’s excited about her choice, knowing she’s joining a nationally ranked program with the Bulldogs.

Wallace intends to major in liberal arts and will most like play shortstop or second base for the Bulldogs.