CHARLESTON, S.C. - Making the trip south to Charleston from Waxhaw, North Carolina is Gianna Deluco.  Deluco attends Marvin Ridge High School and competes for the travel organization "Stars National" under Shaun Gleason, who is father of former Charleston Southern softball player Taylor Gleason. 

Deluco is a right-handed pitcher who will also contribute at the plate offensively.  Dealing with injury over the past few years, Gianna last played softball at the high school level in 2022 helping her team with a .462 batting average and 33 strikeouts in 27.0 innings. 

Deluco was able to compete in the spring of 2023 with her travel ball team and put up some impressive numbers going for a .508 batting average and 79 k's in 47.0 innings of work.  On the academic side, she looks to major in Kinesiology and has been a part of her high school Beta Club. She is also Co-President of the Young Republicans Club and earned Maverick recognition every semester of her high school career.

Head Coach Christi Musser on Gianna:

"Dealing with adversity and tough circumstances is part of being an athlete, but they are the moments that make you better.  Gianna has been working exceptionally hard to get healthy and come back stronger than ever.  If her work ethic and commitment to overcoming tough situations is an indication of the kind of career she will have at Charleston Southern, then it's going to be a great one!  She has a strong presence on the mound and will make an impact to our pitching staff right away.  She will also give us a powerful bat at the plate while helping us on the offensive side of the ball as well.  Gianna [Deluco] will be a force in a Buc uniform!

Deluco on her decision to sign with Charleston Southern:

"I chose Charleston Southern for the amazing atmosphere/coaches and beautiful campus, and the strong medical programs and close relationships with hospitals nearby.  I love Charleston Southern's values and very excited to serve the Lord and meet like-minded people."