Kayla Kocher daughter of Keith and Kim Kocher, will be attending Olney Central College as a part of the softball team. During her time at NCHS, Kayla was an active participant in activities including Spanish Club, BETA Club, Science Club, Captains Club, Volleyball (three years), Basketball (one year), and CEO. Coaches pictured with Kayla include: Sara Beam, Andrea Cleaver, Tony Moll (Illinois Force) and Nick Short (Olney Central College)
What made you decide this school was the best fit for you?
” I really enjoy the smaller campus and class sizes. I also believe that Coach Short has the best coaching style for my playing style. Coach Short has been coaching for a long time and he is just such a great coach.”
How do you feel NCHS has prepared you for this next step in life?
” I could not imagine another school giving me as much support as NCHS. The teachers are amazing, they understand when you are struggling and offer a helping hand to get you through the tough assignments. They push you to make sure everything you turn in is done to your full potential. I could not be more thankful for my teachers.”
What are at least two life lessons you have learned from sports?
” I have learned that failure is ok, but it’s how you come back from it that really shows who you are as a player. Another lesson is the determination and perseverance that it takes to play game takes.
How have your coaches (and assistant coaches) helped prepare you to play at a collegiate level?
” I believe that playing under Coach Beam and Coach Cleaver has pushed me to play my best always and leave everything I have on the field. They make sure to prepare us for the tough games and make sure we are physically and mentally prepared for any team. They both pick you up when you are down and push you when they know you can do more. If they didn’t yell at me I think I would be worried.”
What will you miss the most next year about not being at NCHS?
” I have learned that failure is ok, but it’s how you come back from it that really shows who you are as a player. Another lesson is the determination and perseverance that it takes to play game takes.
How have your coaches (and assistant coaches) helped prepare you to play at a collegiate level?
” I believe that playing under Coach Beam and Coach Cleaver has pushed me to play my best always and leave everything I have on the field. They make sure to prepare us for the tough games and make sure we are physically and mentally prepared for any team. They both pick you up when you are down and push you when they know you can do more. If they didn’t yell at me I think I would be worried.”
What will you miss the most next year about not being at NCHS?
” I will miss the underclassmen. I can’t play every position and win games all by myself. These underclassmen help me in more ways than just playing the game. They make me laugh when I’m upset about a play or an at-bat. All the underclassmen have become my friends and I know they have my back no matter what.”
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Is there anything else you would like to add?
” I am so excited to start my college softball journey at OCC. I know this is where I need to be and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.”
