Kaitlyn Culler Hicks, a 2009 graduate of Patrick County High School, was recently inducted into the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame, an honor recognizing her outstanding accomplishments as a student-athlete and her lasting impact on Ferrum College softball.
Before beginning her collegiate career, Kaitlyn played four years of varsity softball for the Patrick County Cougars, serving as a pitcher and helping establish herself as a standout athlete in her hometown.
Kaitlyn played softball for the Ferrum Panthers from 2010 through 2013 under the direction of Coach Vickie Van Kleeck.
During her four-year career, the Panthers compiled an impressive 127-55 team record. A standout pitcher throughout her career, Kaitlyn helped lead Ferrum to the 2012 USA South Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and the 2013 USA South regular-season championship. She finished her career as Ferrum’s all-time leader in pitching victories with 57 wins and posted a remarkable 1.73 career ERA, placing her among the top pitchers in Ferrum softball history.
Her 2013 season was particularly impressive, as she recorded a 1.21 ERA, the third-best single-season mark in program history. Kaitlyn’s accomplishments earned her numerous individual honors.
In 2013, she was named USA South Pitcher of the Year, while also earning First-Team All-USA South and Second-Team All-Region honors. She was named First-Team All-USA South and Second-Team VaSID All-State in both 2012 and 2013, along with All-Region recognition in 2012. She was also selected to the USA South All-Tournament Team three times, in 2010, 2012 and 2013.
Beyond her accomplishments on the field, Kaitlyn distinguished herself in the classroom as well. She earned Academic All-USA South honors all four years at Ferrum and graduated cum laude.
While her statistics and awards tell the story of an exceptional athlete, Kaitlyn’s induction also recognizes the character she brought to Ferrum athletics. She exemplified the highest ideals of small-college athletics through her sportsmanship, dedication, teamwork and commitment to others—values that reflect Ferrum College’s motto, “Not Self, But Others.”
For Kaitlyn, this honor is not one she feels she earned alone. She is especially grateful to the many coaches, pitching coaches and teammates who were part of her journey throughout her softball career. She credits their guidance, encouragement, support and belief in her as a major part of her success, both on and off the field.
To Kaitlyn, softball was always a team effort, and she is thankful for every coach and teammate who helped challenge her, teach her and make her a better player and person. More than the wins, records and awards, it is a celebration of the hard work, humility, relationships and memories that made her journey so special.
