Woodland’s Taytum Kelly – North OK Softball Spotlight Presented by Law Firm of Boettcher, Devinney, Ingle, & Wicker

By Derrick Smith

Taytum Kelly is a senior at Woodland High School, where she is a member of the Cougars’ softball team. She plays both third base and pitcher. She says that winning the VYPE North Oklahoma Softball poll is an honor because of who she was up against.

“Coming from such a small town and being in competition with players from some 4A-6A school is a big accomplishment,” she said. “It really means a lot to know the amount of support I have.”

While she has a lot of support behind her, there are a couple of role models that have made a big impact on Taytum’s life. 

“My softball my coach, Mr. Potts, has definitely been a huge part of high school always gave me confidence on and off the field,” Kelly said. “Also, my youth pastor Kara Clapp has been a great role model for me. I look up to her a lot. She’s always there to boost my confidence or if I just need to talk. And of course my parents have been the biggest role models of my life. They give me the most support and they always tell me to never settle for less than the best because I deserve the best. They have showed me how to work hard. They have made me who I am today. They are always there to tell me great job or just give me a hug they mean a lot to me.”

In the classroom, there are a couple of teachers that have greatly affected Taytum’s life. 

“My Ag teachers, Mr. Nieman and Mr. Griesel are my favorite teachers,” she said. “They have been a huge part of my life. They have taught me how to become a leader and have always made me strive to be my best.”

While she has a great amount of support, Taytum also knows that it takes hard work in order to be successful on the field. 

“Dedication has been a huge part of my success in sports,” she said. “What you put in is what you get out.”

Other than athletics, Taytum also serves as President of the Woodland FFA, Vice-President of the Student Council, a member of the National Honor Society, FCA, class officer, football manager, and President of Blue Crew.