On February 6, Paige Wilhelm, a dedicated two-sport varsity athlete, signed her National Letter of Intent to play Division II softball at Chowan University in South Carolina.

“I made the decision I wanted to play in college back in 7th grade. I had this coach, he passed away a few years ago, but we were really close and he gave me my love for softball. Everything kind of stemmed from him,” said Wilhelm.

Wilhelm played on varsity all four years of high school.

“I think playing varsity all four years helped me to see what it’s like not to be the best. It definitely helped me grow as a player and as a person,” Wilhelm said.

Coach Andrea Poffinberger said, ”She’s very driven. I think she’s known from early on that she wanted to be a softball player in college. She is extremely hardworking and leads by example; she expects 100% from herself and her teammates.”

The decision to go to Chowan was easy for Wilhelm–she went on a visit to the school and fell in love with it.

“I really liked the coach at the school. I had the opportunity to meet the team, and the girls were really inviting. Overall, I just really liked the environment of the school. I had other coaches and schools contact me, but Chowan was the one that stuck out to me.”

In addition to playing softball, Wilhelm will also be studying exercise science. She currently works at Soldier Fit and teaches exercise classes to members of the gym.

Poffinberger said, “She is going to do great things. I can’t wait to see her success on and off the field.”