Ram star commits to UTEP

RIO RANCHO — Rio Rancho High School’s Lilyrose Larrabee verbally committed to play for the University of Texas at El Paso softball team in the Fall of 2026.

“I’m committed to UTEP,” Larrabee said. “The coaching staff, the players are all really nice, and I just loved it over there.”

The UTEP Miners snagged the versatile Larrabee, who plays catcher, shortstop and is a utility player.

The incoming senior has played varsity softball since her eighth-grade year and is one of the elite softball players in the state.

“It was a big moment for me when they brought me up to varsity. The Rams had confidence in me, which gave me confidence in myself,” Larrabee said.

Larrabee displays a strong understanding of the game, a knack for hitting home runs and phenomenal reflexes to go along with top-tier arm strength, accuracy, field vision and leadership.

This past season, Larrabee was a first team All-District and a first team All-State selection as a catcher. She also helped lead the Rams to a 16-11 record.

The season prior, Larrabee was the 1-5A Offensive Player of the Year.

With one more year left in the Ram uniform for the standout, RRHS softball will be a team to watch in 2026.

“Look out for Jordyn Tenorio, Delysia Valdez; they are very good players. We also have a lot of upcoming younger classes that we should look out for as well,” Larrabee said.