This week’s Jennie Stuart Orthopedic – Michael Venable State Farm Player of the Week is Chayse Gilliland.
Chayse is an 8th grader at University Heights Academy and a member of the Lady Blazer softball team.
This season, Chayse has had a lot of success at the plate hitting 3 homers while batting a .688 average. (per KHSAA website)
She is also the team’s ace and has pitched 16.1 innings recording 29 strikeouts.
Gilliland wasn’t sure if she’d be playing softball this season, as most of her commitment is tied to a different sport.
For Chayse, even at her younger age, she’s considered one of the best volleyball players in the 2nd region.
She credits her head softball coach Ashlie Ezell, and a chance to take a break from volleyball, as some reasons she stepped back in the diamond.
When asked how she’s felt since joining the team this season, Gilliland explained how much she’s enjoyed her experience and time spent with her teammates.
As far as her enjoyment this season, hitting a few home runs can definitely add to her experience.
Chayse talked about her time spent going yard this season.
With the power hitting that she is capable of, Chayse has found herself get intentionally walked multiple times this season.
She talked about what goes through her head during those moments.
In her interview the topic of leadership was brought up and Gilliland explained how she doesn’t let her age stop her from embracing that role.
Lastly, Chayse described what her favorite thing about softball is and also shared her goals for the rest of the season.