2016 South Whidbey High School graduate Ricky Muzzy recently signed a letter of intent to play baseball for the University of Washington.

The past two seasons, Muzzy helped lead Lower Columbia College (Longview) to the Northwest Athletic Conference championship.

Muzzy had a key RBI in the 7-5 win over Yakima Valley in the title game and was named to the all-tournament team.

During the tournament, the sophomore shortstop collected six hits with a double, triple, five RBI and six walks while batting cleanup.

The latest title was the Red Devils’ 13th; in all, Lower Columbia has reached the community college finals 26 times after winning 40 divisional titles.

Lower Columbia finished the 2018 season with a 36-7 record.

Muzzy earned second-team, all-league honors while hitting .291 with 10 doubles, four home runs and 25 RBI during the regular season.

In his freshman season, Muzzy hit .306 with five doubles, four triples and a home run. He scored 23 runs and drove in 15.

Muzzy chose the UW because it is close to home and he grew up watching Husky sports.

“I always wantd to go to UW,” he added, “and I aways wanted to play D-1 baseball. I think it’s a little more statisfying for me after playing at a junior college for two years.

“I can’t wait to get going.”

Lower Columbia head coach Eric Lane said, “Ricky is a prototypical spark plug. He was a huge part of our back-to-back championships.

“He was a quiet leader with a loud game. I appreciated his work ethic and desire to be great.

“He is an all-time great Red Devil.”

University of Washington head coach Lindsay Meggs said he recruited Muzzy because the former Falcon is “a talented player” and “battle tested.”

“Every time he steps on the field you can tell that he expects to win,” Meggs added. “I like his tools, but I love his confidence.”