“My faith is a big part of why I play softball.” – Kiley Huffman
Kiley Huffman Feels Troy’s Love
“As soon as I stepped into Troy, I could feel how much people love the Trojans. It is the sweetest thing seeing businesses, restaurants, and stores all supporting the college.”
Those were the words from one of the newest Troy Trojan softball players, Kiley Huffman. She echoed the words that Coach Eric Newell expressed to me during our conversation on Thursday afternoon. The culture and support from the town of Troy, Alabama is a real thing, and it makes you want to give all you can to bring them a successful program.
A New Chapter After Texas Tech
In Huffman’s case, she did not come to Troy straight out of high school. She spent her freshman year in Lubbock, Texas with the Texas Tech Red Raiders. You know the story, they made the run to OKC and finished second to the Texas Longhorns.
Afterwards, Kiley Huffman made the decision to pursue something different. We all have wants and needs in life. Nobody knows our innermost thoughts better than ourselves. In Kiley’s search for a new home, belief and support were the main things she wanted to find. It did not take long to realize where that was.
“When I entered the portal this summer the main thing I was looking for was coaches that believed in me and my ability on the softball field. I wanted to have a coaching staff that stood behind me and pushed me while also supporting me. From the moment I met each of the coaches I knew that they would push me to not only be a better player but also a better person and I admire that so much,” said Huffman.
Beyond Softball: Faith and Connection
I have spoken with several transfers this summer, and one thing that always rings loud and clear is the want for coaches to believe in them and appreciate them. That may be something often overlooked today, but it is still alive in places like Troy.
It is not all about what happens on the field. It is always a blessing when you can connect beyond the sport with your coaches and teammates, especially when it comes to your faith.
Earlier this week, I spoke with current New York Rise player Ashley Trierweiler, who expressed the same sentiment. There is more to life than softball, and being able to glorify God while playing the game is the most important thing.
“My faith is a big part of why I play softball. God has graciously given me the ability to play this sport and for that I am forever grateful. My goal when I step on the field is to not only do my absolute best to support my teammates but also to glorify my God in any way I can.”
Kiley Huffman immediately felt that connection with Coach Newell.
“One of the main reasons I chose Troy was the way Coach Newell spoke about his faith to me. It was powerful, genuine, and truly inspiring. When I visited Troy, I knew this is where God was calling me to be because it’s a place where I can grow in my faith. I know I’ll be able to grow not just by myself but with my coaches and teammates as well.”
Building a Mid-Major Contender
Troy has the feel of a strong mid-major contender that could shake things up in college softball. We have seen it from programs like Grand Canyon University, Liberty University, and James Madison University in the past. Get into the NCAA Regionals and anything can happen. What better feeling is there than going into a top power’s place and coming away with more than anyone expected?
What makes this group capable? It starts with a foundation built on belief, hard work, and chemistry. The program added several players this offseason from the portal to join returners eager to prove that Troy is both capable and worthy of recognition. The buy-in is there, and for Troy, the hope is that great results will follow.
“I am so incredibly excited to see what our team does this season. We have such a strong group of girls who are ready and willing to compete. We also have an incredibly talented pitching staff, and I cannot wait to see them in action this spring. As far as fall preparation, we are working hard, and we are working with a purpose to get better every single day,” said Huffman.
A Chance to Make History
Kiley Huffman went on to share what it would mean to put Troy softball on the map.
“It would be amazing to do something like that with this group of girls. I have only known most of these girls for a couple weeks, but we are already growing so close with each other. We all share the same drive and passion for the game, and being able to make history together would be such a surreal and special experience for all of us.”
A Perfect Mix
I wanted to hear a newcomer’s mindset and thoughts on becoming a Troy Trojan. Coach Newell was passionate about what brought him to Troy and how the community rallies around the school. Kiley Huffman validated every bit of that passion.
What kind of season Troy will have, only time will tell. But one thing is certain. Programs that find the perfect chemistry between determined players and coaches who believe in them often rise. Add a town that feels like home from the moment you arrive, and you have a perfect mix for success.
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