PEDRO — Anna Bridges won’t be the coach’s pet, but she might take care of their pets.

The Rock Hill Redwomen senior is headed for the University of Rio Grande not only to play volleyball and track, but to work toward a career as a veterinarian.

Bridges said Rio Grande’s location and course of study were the key reasons she picked the Redwomen over Capital, Morehead State, West Minster (Pa.) and Allegheny.

“I like that it’s in the country. I’m a country girl. It’s close to home so I can run home and visit,” said Bridges. “I sat in on some classes and I like the teachers and professors. I like the people. They’re all nice.”

Bridges will pursue her degree to become a veterinarian by playing two sports, something she is looking forward to doing.

“I think playing two sports will be more of a challenge. I like to play. I like to compete and I like to do things people think I can’t do,” said Bridges.

Rio Grande volleyball coach Patsy Fields was pleased to add Bridges to the team’s youthful roster.

“She’s just a good athlete. She has all the tools it takes to be great, she just lacks experience. She’ll see action during the season,” said Fields.

Bridges was a three-time All-Ohio Valley Conference pick in volleyball and two-time all-district selection.

In track, Bridges has been a three-time regional qualifier and also won high point honors in the league meet.

Rio Grande’s head track coach Bob Willey plans on using Bridges in the long jump, high jump and possibly the triple jump.

“She’s athletic. We’ll look at her in several things, but she’s a good high jumper and we don’t want to take her away from that,” said Willey.

Bridges said the triple jump is another challenge.

“The triple jump is new to me. I’ve never seen that. I’d like to be an all-around athlete in track,” said Bridges.

“I think it’s going to take a lot of repetition and breaking down the game and learning to compete at a higher level.”

Anna is the daughter of Teresa and Lee Bridges of Pedro.