JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Kaylee Kilgore of South Pittsburg High School has officially signed on to play for Chattanooga State Community College’s softball program following her graduation this year.
Kilgore began her softball journey at a very young age, playing in various travel ball leagues. She quickly fell in love with the sport and committed herself to developing her skills, driven by the mindset that opportunities to play sports are limited.
“I live by the idea that you can only do sports for so much of your life—and then it’s done,” Kilgore said. “So I’m trying to play as long as I can. I’ve prepared and worked hard over the past 14 years, and I got to make that dream come true today.”
Jason Evans, head coach of the Lady Pirates Softball Team at SPHS, noted that Kilgore is the first player in the program’s history to sign with Chattanooga State’s softball team. He praised her as a four-year starter who set a school record for strikeouts, recording 283 in one season and 205 in the current season. According to Evans, Kaylee set her sights on joining Chattanooga State’s program as early as August 2024 and trained through the off-season to reach the level needed to be recruited. He emphasized how proud the school is of her historic achievement.
“She’s definitely put in the work to be at this point, and we’re excited to see where she goes from here,” said Evans.
During her signing presentation, Kilgore expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, friends, and everyone who supported her throughout her softball journey. She also thanked her teammates at South Pittsburg High School, crediting them with helping shape her both as a player and as a person. She shared appreciation for her coaches, thanking them for the opportunity to be part of the team and for their mentorship as she prepares to take her skills to the next level at Chattanooga State Community College later this year.
