Amanda Fitzsimmons couldn’t wait any longer.

So she didn’t. Instead, Auburn Riverside’s star on the fastpitch diamond announced Tuesday night that she has chosen to continue her career next year at the University of Washington.

“When I took my campus tour and met with the coaches and my team, it just felt right,” Fitzsimmons said. “It just clicked.”

Fitzsimmons, a senior, is a three-time first-team all-league selection. Three years ago, she became the first freshman in South Puget Sound League North Division history to earn MVP honors. As a sophomore, after the Ravens dropped down to the SPSL 3A, Fitzsimmons was named the league’s Pitcher of the Year.

Last spring, as a junior, Fitzsimmons again brought home league MVP honors after delivering a 0.70 earned run average in the circle, hitting .647 with seven doubles, two triples and a home run.

In addition to the impressive numbers, Fitzsimmons also has helped the Ravens qualify for the state tournament in each of the past two years.

The chance to play close to home and with a Division I program was simply too much to pass up, she conceded.

“I’ve always wanted to stay close to home where I could be with my family if something happens,” Fitzsimmons said. “And I’ve always wanted the support system of my school and my town. I wanted to go to the highest level I could play at.”

Fitzsimmons, who will walk-on at the UW, also took trips to Utah State, Louisville and Seattle University. A pitcher, outfielder and first basemen for the Ravens, she was recruited by Washington as a hitter.

“All I really think right now is that I am excited,” she said.