Karlee Callahan grew up on the softball field. “I am a sophomore and I play softball, basketball, and cheer for Antlers High School,” she said. “My dad introduced me to softball when I was three, he played baseball his entire life.” From the moment she picked up a glove, she hasn’t stopped chasing greatness.

“My inspiration has always been my love for the game,” Karlee said. “I started at such a young age, and it has shaped me into the person I am today. My biggest influences are my parents and all of my grandparents. They show up and support me at any cost and I feel like it’s my responsibility to show up for them and make them proud.”

When it comes to team dynamics, Karlee sees something special developing. “We’ve really grown together, and I feel like our chemistry has only gotten stronger,” she said. “My role on our team is to lead by example. I am the shortstop and I have to maintain a good attitude and lift everyone up, even when things aren’t going good for me.”

Balancing her schedule isn’t easy. “I play multiple sports in a small school, we play games or practice almost every day and sometimes we practice all three sports on the same day,” she said. “Besides daily practices and conditioning, I try to get an appropriate amount of sleep, eat well and maintain my grades.”

Her toughest moment came early. “The most challenging moment so far would be my freshman year when we got all new coaching staff,” Karlee said. “It took time and hard work to build trust and relationships with my coaches.”

Through it all, she’s anchored by faith, family, and mentors. “First off, I would like to thank God for giving me the ability, opportunity, and desire to play sports,” she said. “I would also like to recognize my parents, all of my grandparents, my sister, my church family, my coaches, and teachers for always believing in me and pushing me to be the best athlete and person I can be.”