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Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend

Kayla Holguin, Bridgewater-Raritan High School Class of 2022 and Varsity Softball Player, Prepares for Her Next Inning

Kayla, what do you love about softball?

I have been interested in softball since I was 5. My father is a state trooper, and I went to their annual softball tournaments. I played club softball growing up and made the varsity team at Bridgewater-Raritan in my freshman year. Since 2018, I’ve also played in the summer, fall and winter with the NJ Inferno, which plays showcase tournaments along the East Coast. 

I am a utility player, which means I play every position, but primarily I play third base and outfield. The sport gets very exciting, but it can also be relaxing. You can just be in the moment with your teammates who become your close friends. 

I started training at Zoned Sports Academy in my freshman year with my school team, and I started individual lessons in my junior year to improve my skills. It really boosted my confidence and kept me motivated. 

What are your biggest accomplishments?

Last year I made the Skyland Conference’s All-Conference Second Team for Bridgewater-Raritan. Since the conference is very competitive, this honor is a big deal. I also was accepted into the National Honor Society last year. 

Will you play softball in college?

Yes! I was recruited by Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania to play on their team. I’ll be studying neuroscience. 

Who inspired you growing up?

My parents were my biggest inspiration. My mom pushed me to succeed but reminded me to always stay humble. She told me that if I did not make varsity, I would just have to work harder to get that spot.

What will you miss when you leave for college?

I'm going to miss like our football games. I vividly remember our playoff game this past fall. We had a full student section and almost every senior showed up. 

What do you love about Bridgewater-Raritan High School? 

I love the community, which is so big I still meet new people. Even as a senior, I can walk the hallways and meet someone I have never seen before. My favorite memory was when I made the varsity team as a freshman and got to meet the older girls. I thought, “That will be me one day.” They became role models.