SOUTH WEBSTER -- The courtship is over for Courtney. She's decided to take the plunge.

No, Courtney Doughman isn't entertaining ideas of marriage at this point in her life, but she is taking a major step in her career after signing a letter-of-intent to play basketball at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

The 5-foot-9 senior forward for the South Webster Lady Jeeps took care of her college decision in order to concentrate on her senior season.

"This is one of the most memorable days of my life," Doughman said. "I have been working almost year around since I was in the fifth grade for this to become a reality. With this important decision out of the way, I'm looking forward to competing in a successful season at South Webster High School."

A member of the National Honor Society, Who's Who Among American High School students, and a Student of the Month, Doughman has excelled both in the classroom and on the court. She was a starter last season for Rock Hill and helped the team to the Ohio Valley Conference championship.

Doughman was an All-OVC first team selection and named to the Southeast basketball coaches all-district team. She won the field goal percentage and most 3-point goals awards.

"The academics were also a reason for choosing UMBC. Everyone in both academic and athletic communities made me feel at ease and at home," Doughman said.

Although Doughman has worked hard to become a quality basketball player, she said there have been a lot of people who have helped her improve her game.

"Besides thanking the members of my family, I would like to thank four special people who have helped me develop my skills so that I can play at the next level: Mike Hughes, Amy Hughes, Jim Clayton, and Nathan Lewis," Doughman said.

"One of the reasons I choose UMBC was because of the coaching staff. They are new to the school, but their past record shows me that they will be successful in the NEC (Northeast Conference)."

Courtney is the daughter of Joe and Cathy Doughman of Ironton.

Brooke Hughes, also a senior at South Webster, joined Doughman as an early college signee.

Hughes signed a national letter-of-intent with the University of Pittsburgh.

Brooke is a Street & Smith magazine honorable mention All-American. She was a member of the AAU national championship team, the Southeast District Player of the Year, and a first team All-Ohio selection.

Brooke is the daughter of Lady Jeeps head coach Mike Hughes and sister of Ironton Lady Fighting Tigers head coach Amy Hughes.