Four Added to Longwood Softball Roster

Longwood University softball head coach Kathy Riley has announced the addition of four recruits. Krista Kelly of Rockville, Maryland, Haleigh Kilby of Nokesville, Kelsey Sweeney of Newport News and Glenn Walters of Glen Allen have each signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Lancers beginning in 2014-15.

“We have added athleticism and skill that will translate into opportunities to compete each and every year,” said Riley. “Not only do Haleigh, Glenn, Krista and Kelsey fit our profile for hard working and committed student-athletes, but they excite our coaching staff in regards to the possible impact they can make on the diamond.”

Kelly is a letter-winner at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Rockville, Md. As a junior in 2013, the team captain and MVP notched a .513 batting average. As a shortstop/third baseman, Kelly garnered All-WCAC and All-County First Team honors, in addition to earning an All-Met Second Team selection from the Washington Post. She plays for the Vienna Stars Gold club team.

“Krista brings strong softball instincts to our infield,” commented the 17th-year head coach. “She can make all the plays at multiple positions, while providing Longwood with a player who hits in clutch situations.”

Walters is an outfielder from Glen Allen High School in Glen Allen. She plays for the Richmond Storm club team, hitting .437 for the squad this fall.

“We strive to recruit softball players with a strong upside and Glenn is an explosive athlete who will continue to get better during her career at Longwood,” explained Riley.

Sweeney attends Menchville High School in Newport News where she is a two-time All-District First Team honoree at second base and shortstop. Last season, she hit .426 and was named to the Daily Press All-Star Team. She is a member of the Williamsburg Starz club team.

“Kelsey comes from a high-achieving family and we love adding that component to our competitive Longwood program,” said Riley. “Kelsey can play several different positions and her softball IQ will give her a great advantage to working her way into the lineup.”

Kilby comes to Longwood from Brentsville District High School in Nokesville, where she is a shortstop/third baseman. As a junior, she earned First-Team All-District accolades and was named Brentville’s MVP with a .431 batting average. Kilby also plays for the Fauquier Freeze club team. Former Freeze players include current Lancer Becca Huitt and Justina Augustine.

“Haleigh is the typical Longwood softball athlete: explosive, powerful and quick,” concluded Riley. “She has good bat speed and a strong arm. She has experience playing multiple infield positions, but her overall athleticism will allow her to move anywhere on the field.”

Longwood will open its 2014 campaign on Saturday, February 15 when the squad hosts its annual Lancer Leadoff Tournament.