SPEEDWAY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

“School can be mentally exhausting and draining but softball gives me the opportunity to let that all go and focus on the sport.” Senior Kyla Booker looks forward to the spring, getting outside, and playing in the outfield for a program eager to return to post-season glory. “Kyla is a standout student-athlete whose leadership, determination, and drive are unmatched,” said varsity softball coach Katie Paden. “She is fiercely committed to achieving her goals, consistently putting in the effort and dedication it takes to succeed.” Last year, the Sparkplugs were an inning away from bringing home a sectional championship. Kyla’s contributions last year and this spring are critical to growing success. “Her positivity and vocal leadership will be crucial in keeping the team focused and motivated,” noted Paden. “I am confident Kyla will be a key contributor to our success this season, both as a leader and a teammate.” And Kyla also recognizes the importance that Coach P has brought to her life. “She’s taught me not only to be a good athlete but how to be a good person,” said Booker. “She’s been hard on me at times but it’s done nothing but push me to be better overall. Her love and care she has for this team and me will never be forgotten and surely doesn’t go unnoticed.” When Kyla graduates in late May, the Sparkplugs hope to still be playing some tournament softball. After that is complete, Kyla is excited about the next challenge. “I’m attending the honors college at Indiana State University and majoring in Pre-Med while minoring in Criminology,” said Kyla. And while that’s an exciting challenge for the future, the daughter of Dawn Haltom and Terrance Booker will miss her softball experience. “I love the teams I’ve been associated with the past 4 years and softball has truly gotten me through it all.”