Some athletes measure success by wins and stats, but for Raeleigh Williston, it’s about growth. “To finish my senior year a better athlete than the season before,” she said when asked about her personal goals heading into her final season at Valliant High School.
That mindset carries over to the team as well. “It’s been really strong. Everyone is supportive of each other, and we’ve built a culture where we celebrate the small wins just as much as the big ones,” Williston explained. For the Lady Dawgs, unity has become just as important as execution.
The bond is evident in the way they play together on the field. “Our communication on the field,” Williston said when asked about the team’s biggest improvement. “We’re a lot more vocal, which keeps us connected and focused during games.”
That togetherness has fueled big goals for this group of seniors. “We would like to make an appearance at state before we graduate this year. I’ve been putting in extra practice in my off time, and as a team, we push each other to stay disciplined and keep improving every day.”
Confidence comes not just from preparation but also from depth. “Our work ethic and our pitching depth,” she said when asked about the team’s strength. “Between Kinley Smith, Telsie Trapp, and myself, we’ve built a strong rotation that gives us a lot of confidence no matter who’s in the circle.”
Williston plays a key role in that success. “I mainly play third base, but I pitch as well,” she said. Her sharp eye helps her stay a step ahead at the plate. “I pay attention to where the infield and outfield are shifted. That tells me a lot about where they expect me to hit and gives me a chance to adjust my approach.”
Preparation is another piece of her game. “I focus on staying stretched out and loose, keep my arm warm, and make sure I’m hydrated and fueled so I can handle whatever comes my way.”
When it’s time to compete, she keeps her mindset steady. “It’s all about confidence and focus. I tell myself to stay calm, do my job, and leave everything I’ve got out there.”
As her high school career winds down, Williston wants to be remembered for more than just performance. “That I worked hard, never gave up, and was someone my teammates could always count on. I also want to be remembered as someone who was patient with the younger girls and helped guide them whenever they needed it.”
