T.R. Miller Tiger Lady Tiger tennis players Laura Burkett and Deaundra Hetherington became T.R. Miller tennis coach Paul Smith’s first two college scholarship signees Thursday as they signed with Faulkner State Community College of Bay Minette.

“Both of these girls have worked really hard and have a good work-ethic,” Smith, who has been at Miller for seven years, said of the duo. “I think that will put them in pretty good standing at Faulkner. I think these two are the folks they are looking for and the kind of athletes and students they want. They certainly have been a big part of our program the last three and four years. I am going to miss them. They were finalists at sectionals this year. They are two really good tennis players. This is a great opportunity for them.”

Burkett and Hetherington signed with FSCC head coach Ritchie Dulaney.

“They are two good tennis players that come from a great program,” Dulaney said. “I think they are quality athletes and quality students and we are glad to have them join our program.”

Hetherington said it feels great to have signed a scholarship.

“I am excited,” Hetherington saId. “I love tennis. It is a great opportunity that happens once in a lifetime. I really did not want to go far away from home straight out of high school. Faulkner is pretty close and I get to play tennis and a lot of my friends will be there.”

Burkett said she was not expecting to get a tennis scholarship.

“I really love tennis,” Burkett said. “In the years before, I did not put as much effort into my game. I played 10 games and went 8-2. It is unexpected, but really big to get a scholarship and I am really excited to go to Faulkner.”