By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Surrounded by family, coaches and teammates, Lacey Kelley celebrated a milestone moment Nov. 13, officially committing to play softball for Henderson State University in Arkansas. 

The signing ceremony, held in the Luverne School Auditorium, honored Kelley’s achievement as she accepted a scholarship to join the Henderson State Reddies for the 2025 season.

Kelley is the daughter of Scott and Kristin Kelley. She expressed both excitement and bittersweet emotions as she reflected on the close of her high school athletic journey.

“I had offers from other colleges, both in-state and out-of-state,” Kelley said. “But Henderson State stood out. Coach Worthington and Coach Danni started recruiting me early and were the first to offer me a spot. During the process, we built a great relationship. When my family and I visited the campus, they rolled out the red carpet for us. 

“Meeting with Trey Berry, the college president, and learning about the school’s traditions and the story of the Reddies made me feel right at home. Their top-tier education program, with 100% job placement, solidified my decision since I plan to major in Early Childhood Education.”

Some of Kelley’s proudest athletic achievements include earning her 500th strikeout during her junior year, being ranked 23rd nationally for pitching and helping her team reach regionals each year of her high school career. According to Kelley, all of her softball coaches taught her to stay positive, never take anything for granted and to always be a great teammate because doing so would make her a better player,

“The knowledge I will carry with me to Arkansas comes from my dad and all of my coaches,” said Kelley. “They told me to stay up, don’t lean, be positive, be a leader, put God first, have fun and focus on winning each pitch.”

Head Coach Dale Simmons, who has worked with Kelley throughout her high school career, praised her contributions to the Lady Tigers and her exceptional character.

“Lacey epitomizes what every student-athlete should embody: hard work, leadership, dedication, perseverance, and commitment,” Simmons said. “Her contributions to our program have been invaluable, and she’s set a tremendous example.”

Assistant coach Lainey Eiland highlighted Kelley’s exceptional qualities as a player and as a student.

“Lacey will do anything needed to win,” said Eiland. “She’s a true team player who always puts the team first. She strives to improve every day, constantly asking for more and pushing herself to be better. Lacey isn’t afraid to ask questions or seek help when she needs it, which shows her determination to learn and grow. It’s clear she’s eager to succeed, both on the field and in the classroom.”