Class of 2024 Softball Commit Kaleigh Topilko
We are proud to announce a new addition to our team for the 2022-2023 season, Kaleigh Topilko (Alberta, Canada). From the moment Kaleigh stepped on campus with her parents, we knew we had to have her. We are extremely excited about, bot only her abilities on the diamond, but her character. She is a great kid, teammate and heavily involved in her community through youth softball.
Finding good players is one thing, finding greta people is another search entirely. As Coach Ward and the Tetons are looking to rebuild the program, it is essential to bring in players that have high character and understand that every aspect of being a student athlete are important -academically, athletically and socially. All of these aspect are essential to the success of the student athlete. "After meting Kaleigh, her parents - Dean and Crystal, speaking with her current coaches and hearing from our teammates that spent time with Kaleigh; we have zero doubts that she will come in and embody the Teton spirit. The moment she stepped on campus, I could tell she was special and when she left campus I knew we had to do everything in our power to get her here with us. She's a great player and an even better young woman." - Coach Ward
Why did you choose Williston State College?
"When the school first reached out to me I was immediately intrigued. When Coach Ward called me, I was so excited. There was never a time I didn't consider Williston State at all, which was a hug sign for me. As soon as I stepped foot on campus, I felt home and immediately fell in love with the school and the environment at the school. I just felt comfortable and I honestly didn't want to leave."
Tell us about your family:
"I am the youngest of 4 and was born and raised in Alberta, Canada. Our family dog is named Judge Judy. Growing up as the youngest wasn't always easy but I am thankful that I have 3 amazing older siblings that taught me so much. My parents have been my biggest supporters through all of this, from driving me to early and late practices, to always taking time off work so they could watch me play. They have never failed to help me and push me forward with the game and have never stopped believing in me."
What do you bring to Teton Softball, the WSC Campus and the Williston Community?
"I bring a very friendly and outgoing personality. I love meeting new people and engaging in school spirit. I am a hardworking and very committed player who has a great sense of humor."
How are you feeling about your upcoming season?
"Super excited! Not just excited about how I think I will perform but excited to see my teammates perform and for us to compete and grow together this year."
What is your best softball memory?
"When I was in 9th grade, I was playing for a team that had all second year players, me and my friend were the only first year players. We ended up being a really good team and we had the opportunity to compete at Nationals in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We were playing against the second best team out of British Columbia. I pitched, almost, a no-hitter and pitched all 7 innings and we won 5-1. I will never forget the way I felt after that win, it meant so much to me."
What is one thing you will always be proud of?
"The fact that i never give up. I've faced alot of ups and downs throughout my softball career, some were so bad that I wanted to quit or give-up. I never did though, something inside of me would never allow myself to give-up on the sport I have worked so hard in and love."
Academic achievements: Grade 10 - Honors
Sporting achievements: 2 gold and 2 silver medals from provincials, numerous tournament medals, 3 silver GPLS (league) medals, multiple coaches awards, and the leadership award.
Favorite food: Mac and Cheese
Movie: Bench Warmers
Vacation Spot: Hawaii
Music: Rap/Pop
Lucky Number: 11
When we interviewed Coach Brett Harvie from the Angels organization he had some great things to say about Kaleigh, "Her game speaks for itself, but everyone knows her for how great of a person she is. She's a glue-person and a team for sure. She's one of the nicest kids you'll ever meet and one of the best teammates we've ever had. She's very committed as well as her family being very committed supporting her passion"