For Valliant senior first baseman Kylie Corley, leadership isn’t just about being vocal — it’s about showing up every day with purpose. “My personal goal this season is to be a leader on the team, helping to motivate and support my teammates,” Corley said. That focus on teamwork and consistency has helped her become a cornerstone for the Lady Bulldogs, both in the field and at the plate, where she’s hitting an impressive .414.
The Lady Bulldogs have faced their share of challenges this season, but Corley says those obstacles have only made the team stronger. “We’ve had some challenges, but we’re learning from them and growing closer as a team,” she said. That growth has been evident not only in their play but in the way they handle adversity. “We have grown up a lot as players and we are gluing together more and more each practice and game,” Corley said. “That is a big improvement I’ve seen.”
The team’s ultimate goal remains the same each year — make it to the state tournament — and Corley believes they’re on the right track. “We’re working hard in practice, focusing on the fundamentals, and supporting each other in games,” she said. Their biggest strength, she added, is something that can’t be taught. “Our resilience and ability to bounce back from tough situations.”
Corley’s approach to the game is deliberate and focused. “I look for gaps in the infield and outfield,” she explained. “Before games, I make sure to get a good night’s sleep, stay hydrated, eat healthy, and get mentally and physically ready.” When she steps on the field, she keeps things simple: “I remind myself to always have fun, do my best, and stay loose and focused.”
Her favorite memory so far came early in her career. “Freshman year in the Plainview Tournament, I hit a walk-off single against Norman to keep us in the tournament,” she said.
When it’s all said and done, Corley hopes her impact lasts beyond the scoreboard. “I want to be remembered as a player who always gave her best effort on and off the field,” she said.
Outside of softball, Corley competes in powerlifting and plans to continue that at the next level. “I plan to get a scholarship for powerlifting, earn my license for cosmetology, then go to college and double major in business and sports medicine,” she said.
