Katie Killen '18 Recruiting Profile

My name is Katie Killen and I am in the 2018 graduating class. I am currently a sophomore at Smyrna High school in Smyrna, Tennessee. My athletic goal is to push myself to be the very best softball player I can be and compete at the next level. I desire to become an asset to a college team who can utilize my talent and experience to reach the team's goals.

Academically I am a 3.8 GPA student with a goal of becoming a veterinarian. I understand how important maintaining good grades is and am dedicated to maintaining a solid GPA in hopes of securing academic scholarship consideration. I am also very active at SHS. I participate in FFA (Future Farmers of America), FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America), National Beta Club, FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), and JCL (Latin Club). I am a math mentor to a few of my fellow students and often volunteer to help teachers do odd-jobs when needed.

I also believe in having a servant's heart. I volunteer in my community and church on a regular basis. I lead a small group of 3rd graders at my church and frequently volunteer to help with events. I also perform community service by working at a local housing project, local arts academy, and local baseball league for disabled children. I believe one of the best things anyone can do for others is give of their time.

In my freshman year I was a varsity starter playing outfield, shortstop, and second base for the Bulldogs. I was our lead off hitter and had a .300 BA with .360 OBP. I played where my team needed me and at the end of the season was awarded the Team Utility Award. My playing multiple positions allowed me to hone my skills in both the outfield and infield and understand some of the finer points of the game. The best lesson learned my freshman year was in the area of mental toughness. As a lead off hitter my mindset was OBP. Get on any way I can and set the table for the big hitters. On defense I really focused on playing responsibility softball (ball-base-backup) and doing the little things correctly.

I play for the 16U Tennessee Firebirds '00 travel club. I am our primary left fielder but will sometimes play second base. I really enjoy playing the outfield as it allows me to show off my speed. This past spring we finished off a solid season by placing second at the ASA "A" Northern Nationals. In the first 3 tournaments of the fall we have won the Play4Tay where there was 32 teams in the 16U division and finished 2nd in the PGF Tournament of Champions losing to the 18U Tennessee Worth and finished runner-up to the 18U Louisville Stunners at the PGF Mid-South September Showcase. 

A couple of my strengths in the game of softball is speed, hustle, a positive attitude, and a desire to win. I look forward to extending my softball career to the next level and being a part of a quality program.