Kharime Caratachea has experienced ups and downs in her blossoming softball career, even deciding to quit a few times out of frustration.

She never followed through on hanging it up, and at her side through it all were parents Robert and Eva.

Keeping that support system close was a big reason why she decided to change her college commitment and eventually sign with San Francisco State.

Friends, family and coaches gathered at Ripon High’s North Gym on Wednesday to celebrate the senior pitcher’s big moment. Caratachea, also known as “Mims,” originally gave a verbal commitment to William Penn University of Oskaloosa, Iowa last February. On Oct. 17, she announced a new commitment to coach Alicia Reid and San Francisco State.

“San Francisco just felt like home,” Caratachea said. “I’m really grateful for William Penn and the continuous support even after the change. They were very understanding.”

Caratachea was also drawn to being nearer to the coast where she can enjoy the “sweater weather.”

“There’s always so much to do in San Francisco,” she said. “It’s close enough to be near home and for my parents to come watch me play, and yet far enough to be independent.”

She’ll join a well-established program under Reid, a former multi-sport star at Oakdale High. The Gators compete in the NCAA Division II California Collegiate Athletic Association and went 27-23 last season. Caratachea believes she’ll be able to fit right in.

“I think the chemistry is going to be great,” she said. “I know I’ll be young as the incoming freshman, but I’ve been told I’m ahead of my time. With Coach Reid guiding me, I know I’ll be fine.”

San Francisco State is getting a poised and proven pitcher who has performed at every level.

Last year, she led Ripon to its fourth consecutive Trans-Valley League championship and a second straight appearance in the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV playoffs. The Indians were eliminated by Capital Christian, the eventual Division IV NorCal champ.

Caratachea went 10-1 in 17 appearances while boasting a 1.48 ERA and 155 strikeouts in 104 innings. She only gave up 72 hits and 30 walks in the process. Her junior campaign came with individual accolades, Manteca Bulletin MVP, TVL MVP and a spot on the MaxPreps All-SJS Team.

Over the summer, she helped Kevin Gann’s Sorcerer Softball team claim the Premier Girls Fastpitch 16U premier division national title. Caratachea was joined by Ripon teammate Alana Hernandez and East Union standout Aubree Gann.

Having reached the pinnacle in the travel-ball circuit, she hopes to accomplish similar goals with her high school team. The goal for her senior season is to get to the SJS final and qualify for the NorCal playoffs.

“I know that Capital Christian is always going to be tough competition,” Caratachea said. “We’d like to get farther this year, and I have a lot of confidence in my team.”