Senior Emily Gillespie has committed to Northern Kentucky University to further her softball career. Northern Kentucky University is a Division 1 school located in Highland Heights, Kentucky. 

    While Gillespie didn’t sign until softball’s National Signing Day on Nov.9, she verbally committed in December of 2021.

   “I had a few other offers and knew there were other schools interested in me,” Gillespie said.  “But, I was looking at the climate and location so I wasn’t interested in most.” 

   Gillespie received offers from the University of Mount Olive, Mercy College and Alderson Broaddus University. When asked, Gillespie said that deciding which college to play for wasn’t a hard decision for her.

   “I really like the [Northern Kentucky] campus,” Gillespie said. “It’s not too big or small and it’s rural while being only 10 minutes from Cincinnati.”

    Gillespie has been on the varsity team since her sophomore year, and has since been a strong asset to Louisa’s Varsity softball team as a two year starting pitcher.

    Gillespie has been named the Jefferson District Player of the Year, along with being chosen for the Free Lance Star All Area First team, All Region First Team, and Second Team All State.

    In addition to playing for the school, Gillespie also plays for travel teams. She used to play for Virginia Unity softball but currently plays for the Dixie Chicks. 

    “My Unity coach helped me learn to tough it out,” Gillespie said. “But, the Dixie Chicks coach has helped me get my offensive skills back, as well as continue to push my pitching to be better.”

   Gillespie also spends time working on specific skills during private lessons with coaches. 

   “I go to Rick Pauly for pitching,” Gillespie said. “I’ve been going to him for a few years now and he helps me significantly with upcoming seasons and staying in shape with my pitching in general.” 

   With that, Gillespie has a goal of picking up speed this season. All of these tools will come together and help her prepare for her senior year and continue her success at NKU.