Huntleigh Williams is the starting senior shortstop on the Patriots varsity softball team.  She can also play in the outfield and first base, as she is a versatile and talented athlete.  Huntleigh has been in the Independence softball program since her freshman season with all four years as a varsity player.

When it comes to managing academics and athletics, she is focused on getting all her assignments done on schedule.  She is taking an early release this, her final semester, to make sure her school work is completed prior to practice and games until graduation.  “Being well organized and planning effectively is important for success,” said Huntleigh.  She does use a daily calendar and planner to maintain her busy weekly schedule.  It’s a useful tool to help her manage time more efficiently.

Huntleigh will frequent the batting cages on weekends to keep her timing sharp and consistently improve hitting mechanics.  Also, she is lifting weights four times weekly to keep her body toned and for additional strength to drive the ball with more authority.

What motivates this young lady is her parents. “They have always set a good example for myself and my sister.  My parents have established an appreciation for education, community service, including the importance of learning life lessons.”

As an athlete, its all about learning to be a leader, and understanding your role on the team.  It’s about taking responsibility of your own actions while being a good teammate who has a burning desire to win.

After graduation, she will be attending Clemson University to major in biology.  However, Huntleigh is planning to attend graduate school to study speech pathology after she obtains her bachelor’s degree.

Up Close and Personal with Huntleigh:

• Most influential people in her life are mom and dad.  “Also, my grandparents and grandma in particular for building character; they have been very kind, faithful, and loving.
• Community Service is very important to her.  Vacation Bible School, Operation Christmas Child, and the North Star Reading Program, where she has a weekly reading buddy, is a very rewarding experience.
• Favorite professional team is the Carolina Panthers.  Gregg Olsen is the player she enjoys to watch most.
• A big country music fan and favorite artist is Thomas Rhett.
• Best show on television is Grey’s Anatomy.
• Her favorite academic subjects are Science and English.
• Advice for underclassman is to make sure you make good friends, get the support and guidance you need, stay on top of your school work, and don’t procrastinate.