Emma Staats always knew she wanted to play collegiate softball, even when she started playing at five-years-old. Twelve years later, she finally made that dream come true.
Staats, a senior at …
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Emma Staats always knew she wanted to play collegiate softball, even when she started playing at five-years-old. Twelve years later, she finally made that dream come true.
Staats, a senior at Wright City High School, recently signed her commitment on Feb. 2 to play softball at Culver-Stockton College where she will major in biochemistry.
“I had my other offers but I knew I liked this school better than the others, so it felt nice to get the offer,” Staats said.
Staats received other offers from Oklahoma Wesleyan and Calumet University, but she knew Culver-Stockon was home.
Staats plays mostly corners during her games and also plays for her club team, the Missouri Mariners. She has also played basketball and is currently running track for Wright City. Of course, softball remains her favorite sport.
“I really love softball,” Staats said. “It’s very stress relieving even though it can be a stressful sport, but it’s just my home away from home.”
Wright City softball head coach Fred Ross was happy to see one of his players take a step further into continuing their athletic career. Ross also coaches Staats in track and field.
“She’s very determined and wants to get better,” Ross said. “She puts the time in whether it’s in the cage, throwing, or fielding. She’s also just a nice kid and is the full package.”
When Staats was in the recruiting process, Ross found it easy to brag about her softball talent.
“As a high school coach you are trying to get your players recruited, but you have to tell the truth,” Ross said. “It was easy with her because she checks all the boxes coaches are looking for.”
Ross is also looking forward to being able to see Staats’ games next year, as it is about two hours away from Wright City.
Staats is excited to advance her athletic career as it will allow her to work on her craft every day and she can also focus on her education.
When asked if Ross had any advice for Staats as she takes on her new journey, he responded with, “You have to take care of your body, enjoy what you’re doing, find that balance and work on time management.”
After graduating in May, Staats will head to Canton, Mo., and officially become a Culver-Stockton Wildcat.
“I’m not really nervous, it is definitely going to take some adjustment, but I’m confident,” Staats said.
