Athletes can have a number of people who impact their lives and help shape them into the person that they will become. Kaleigh Mills of Woodward has some, but says that there is one that has been very influential.
“I have many role models,” she said. “Logan Long is one who means the most to me. He is a great family friend of mine and graduated from Woodward High School and went on to play Division I football at Kansas State. He gives me mental advice and pep-talks when I’m struggling, and reminds me to love what I am doing.”
Mills is a sophomore at Woodward High School, where she plays softball, basketball, and soccer. Outside of sports, she is also involved in the National Honor Society, the Pep Club, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the First Methodist youth group. She says that being a part of the youth group at her church has been helpful to her.
“Going to youth has helped me grow so much in my faith and keeps me balanced throughout the week with sports and school,” she said.
Being a successful athlete takes a lot of hard work and dedication, something that Mills is familiar with.
“You have to be willing to put in the extra time outside of practice, and work hard no matter what you are doing,” she said. “I have spent countless nights in the cage hitting off the machine and pitching to my dad. The hours in the cage, on the field, or on the court have made me who I am.”
She has had a lot of great experiences during her career and made a lot of memories with her teammates. But Kaleigh has one that stands out the most.
“The highlight of my career would be beating Elk City my freshman year in a 15-inning game,” she recalled. “I pitched over 200 pitches, and hit the walk-off hit. Celebrating with my team was amazing, and I will never forget that.”
As a student in the classroom, Mills has had a number of different teachers that she has learned from. But she has one teacher who made a big impact on her by teaching her more than just the lessons in a book.
“Mrs. Covalt not only did she teach me, but she also taught me outside the classroom with leadership skills,” she said. “She taught me skills that no other teacher could. She is one of my biggest role models and has taught me so much”
