Q&A with Valliant’s Raeleigh Williston – Softball Spotlight
VYPE: Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in softball?
Raeleigh Williston: My name is Raeleigh Williston, and I am 16 years old. My mom and dad put me in T-ball at around four years old, just for something to do and to see how I would like it, and I’ve been playing ever since.
VYPE: What inspired you to take up softball, and who are your biggest influences?
RW: Around the age of nine, I began to be more serious about the sport. My love for the sport inspired me to continue playing. My biggest influences are Jayda Coleman and Adrian Beltre. I love their energy on and off the field.
VYPE: What is your specific role on the team, and how do you prepare for it?
RW: Position wise, my main position is third base, but I can also pitch and play first base. I prepare for my role by trying my hardest at practice and practicing even more at home. I also try to maintain a positive attitude and mindset before the game.
VYPE: What are your goals and hopes for the 2024 season?
RW: My personal goal is to be awarded All-District in my position for the second year, but mostly just to play to the best of my abilities and play my part to help out my team. My hopes for the 2024 team would be to win state with these girls and create a bunch of memories.
VYPE: How important is community support to the team, and in what ways does it impact your performance?
RW: Community support impacts our team performance in a positive way. As a team, we all feed off the energy and the atmosphere that we are performing in. We play at our best when we are in a positive atmosphere.
VYPE: Is there anyone you’d like to thank for supporting you throughout your journey?
RW: I’d like to thank my mom and dad. They made sure I had everything I needed or wanted for softball. They’ve spent countless hours with me at practice no matter how the weather was. My sister, who showed up to every game possible. My brother, who has always fed the machine, played catch with me and caught me since he was 10. And about every coach I’ve ever had for spending their own personal time to help me become the best player I could be.
VYPE: What are your plans after graduating high school?
RW: After I graduate, I plan to attend college where I can further my softball career and obtain an education to become a CRNA.
