By Scott Nickerson
Elmore/Autauga News
Prattville High Junior Kaytie Chandler is looking forward to the upcoming softball season on the diamond for the Lions. At this point in her high school career, Chandler already has 182 strikeouts, with a 13-3 record and a 1.41 earned run average.
“My goals for our upcoming season as a team is really just figuring out each other and how we can back each other up during the season. Something I admire about the girls is how well we can pick each other up from our mistakes, so I’d really love to see that out of us this season. I’m all about pushing someone to the best they can be and always being that person who wants the best for them.”
Chandler started in gymnastics at an early age, but quickly realized that she was going to be too tall to compete at a high level, so her mother put her in softball, and she has loved the sport ever since. Chandler has traveled to multiple locations in the south playing for several competitive teams, including the Firecrackers 05 and Firecrackers 06. She recently joined the Mississippi Bombers 18u Gold team. Next summer, she anticipates traveling to Indianapolis for the Alliance Nations and then on to Colorado.
She is a college prospect and has come up on the radar of several schools already, taking multiple visits, with several more planned. Chandler mentioned several different things she is looking for when making a decision on a school.
“I have visited several colleges and competitive camps, and there are more colleges I plan on visiting later in the year trying to find my future home. I do have my favorites, but I am leaving it in God’s hands and we will see where He takes me! The biggest thing I’ve been taught is that if I were not an athlete would I want to attend that college as a student? Definitely finding a very similar feeling to what it feels like at home and a community that is very involved with every sport and activities on campus!”
In addition to softball, Chandler has also joined the Prattville Lions’ first ever flag football team. Playing quarterback for a few games prior to injury, Chandler has put up impressive statistics in several games. Against Smiths Station earlier this year, Chandler passed for just under 200 yards, had 2 touchdown passes, and 41 yards rushing. In another matchup against Auburn High, the defending Class 7A state champs, Chandler passed for a touchdown and rushed for another touchdown to lead the Lions to a 19-14 win.
Chandler’s abilities on the football field likely result from her family upbringing. “Growing up I played football with my four brothers and I was always the quarterback. Having a natural arm because I am a softball player definitely helps! I watch football all the time with my family, and we always talk about it! My favorite quarterback is either Patrick Mahomes or Ben Roethlisberger. They both represent great things, and they are on my 2 favorite NFL teams!”
Whether playing flag football or softball, Chandler loves the support from fans within the Prattville community. “I have loved Prattville since the day I was born. We all know each other, and community makes me feel like I’m at home. I don’t think I will ever find a better home than Prattville. Our coaches push us like no other and really work with us and know how much potential we have. They make sure our priorities are straight and we stay in line. The fan base and our support are amazing here in Prattville. We couldn’t ask for better fans!”
