HERNANDO, Miss. — On Nov. 13, 2025, five Hernando High School softball seniors signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Callie Desmond and Katlyn Kirkpatrick signed with Itawamba Community College. Molly Anderson committed to Northwest Mississippi Community College, while Bertlee Barrett signed with Williams Baptist University. Macie Dever Boaz will continue her career at the University of Arkansas.
Head coach Nikki Whiten said she couldn’t be more proud of the group.
“They have been such a special group for so long; they’ve really set the tone for athletes,” Whiten said. “They are super selfless and honestly just a great group of kids.”
All five athletes said they are excited to take the next step in their softball journeys.
Dever Boaz said her mother inspired her to pursue a Division I opportunity.
“She showed me the ropes, she taught me the game, she got me to where I’m going, and she continues to support me in every way,” she said.
Barrett said she feels prepared knowing she will have support behind her throughout college.
“Knowing that I have a good support system and knowing that my family will be there for me,” she said.
Anderson said she is ready for the transition into her freshman year.
“Freshman year is going to be challenging and full of hard work,” Anderson said. “I am nervous playing with girls I’ve never played with before, but in the end it’s going to be worth it.”
Desmond said she is looking forward to reuniting with a familiar teammate at Itawamba.
“I am so excited to play with Kirkpatrick in college because we have been playing together since the seventh grade,” she said.
Kirkpatrick said continuing her athletic career alongside Desmond feels meaningful.
“I am more than happy to say I will be attending Itawamba Community College with Desmond because it feels like we are starting from the beginning,” she said.
Years of dedication, training and sacrifice helped each of these athletes reach the collegiate level. Their work has not only earned them scholarships but opened the door to continue their softball careers.
