When Warren Central basketball coach Todd Steward saw Aaron Richmond play in the eighth grade, he knew she could eventually play college basketball. On Thursday, Stewards forecast came true as Richmond signed a letter of intent to play for the University of Toledo (Ohio).I thought that far back that she was going to have a bright future, Steward said. It didnt come without a lot of work. She put the time in and shes a gym rat. This is really special because shes a special kid. Richmond is the first Lady Dragon to sign with a Division I program since SeSe Helm joined the Kentucky Wildcats in 2000. Richmond has been a starting guard for Central since her freshman season and will be the Lady Dragons lone senior this year. During her junior campaign, Richmond averaged 16 points, five assists and four rebounds. Ever since Ive been a little girl Ive wanted this, Richmond said. I knew if I worked hard enough I could get to this level. Richmond will join a Toledo program that finished 20-10 overall and 12-4 in the Mid-American Conference. The Rockets were regular season co-champions of the MAC their fifth straight title and made an appearance in the Womens National Invitational Tournament. Richmond had other opportunities to stay closer to home as Austin Peay and Morehead State were her two other options. But Richmond said she fell in love with Toledo. She wont be a complete stranger, either. Former Kentucky Wesleyan head coach Tandy Bradford is now an assistant at Toledo, and Richmond is expected to be joined by Madison Central product Olivia Terry. Richmond and Terry were on the same summer team this year. It was a perfect fit, Richmond said. Toledo has great coaches. It has a great campus and academically it was the best fit for me. Although Toledo is one of the strongest programs in the MAC, Richmond believes theres an opportunity for playing time. For Richmond to see the court quickly, Steward believes Richmond must improve her strength. Shes going to need work in the weight room and Im sure shell do it, Steward said. When you look at Division-I players, those girls are strong. It doesnt matter what position theyre at. And Aaron will have to get stronger for the college level.