Thomas To Run At Coastal Carolina

Wade Hampton senior LaChelsie Thomas announced Wednesday her decision to sign with Coastal Carolina. 

Thomas, a track and field star coached by Rick Zeller, chose the Chanticleers after also considering the College of Charleston. 

"I had quite a few schools to choose from," Thomas said, "But I think I loved Coastal so much before they put their academics above athletics."

Thomas, a member of the National Honor Society, made it clear that despite her athletic prowess, she was headed to Conway to get an education first and foremost. 

"That is No. 1 to me," Thomas said. "That will always be number one to me." 

As track and field standout for the Wade Hampton Generals, Thomas was named All-Greenville County, was a multiple state qualifier, was named All-Region for the 400 meter relay and also placed in the 200 meters. 

Princess Sweeney, Thomas' mother, said she trusted from the outset that her daughter would make the decision that was right for her. 

"She is a very headstrong person," Sweeney said. "She knew what she wanted. I just supported her."