Morehead State Softball infielder Kirya Kingery returns this season looking to build on to her already impressive career for the Eagles.
The senior from Ona, West Virginia came into the 2023 campaign with a career batting average of .262 and an impressive .358 on base percentage.
Kingery attributes her love of softball to being exposed to it by her family from a young age. In particular, she says her father was a major influence.
"My dad used to play slow pitch softball and he used to play baseball his whole life," She continued. "As soon as I was four years old, I started tee ball."
Kingery was a standout at Cabell Midland High School, where she was named All-Conference all four years, as well as being named to three All-State teams. On her decision to attend Morehead State, Kingery says it almost didn't happen.
"I wasn't really into the whole recruiting process because I didn't know if I wanted to play softball in college. So it was kind of a last second decision."
A multi-sport athlete in high school, Kingery was unsure if she wanted to continue her career at the next level until she got in contact with former head coach Samantha Jones. On her decision to continue playing, Kingery is happy with her choice.
"I don't regret my decision at all."
Coming into this season, Kingery has taken on a new role for the Eagles in the infield. After three seasons of playing shortstop, she now finds herself as the team's third baseman. Taking on a new position is nothing new for her though, as she had to make a similar switch in high school.
"I just started playing [shortstop] my senior year of high school. Actually, before that I was a second baseman."
This versatility has led her to view herself more as a utility player, being able to slot in wherever she is needed most.
Outside of the diamond, Kingery is also an exemplary student, having been named to the OVC Commissioner's Honor Roll three years running. When asked what she thought the most difficult part of being a student-athlete was, her response was easy.
"Having to balance class, and softball, and an internship is tough," she added. "Time management is definitely difficult, especially during season when we're playing close to fifty games."
Kingery has been able to excel on and off the field, all while dealing with Type I diabetes. While she has found success, she says it's still a challenge.
"It's not easy, but it's doable, because the disease I have is controlled by me," she continued. "It's made me stronger as a person, and I wouldn't change having it for the world."
Being able to continue playing at a high level while dealing with the disease has provided her with a chance to inspire others.
"It's helped me out in a lot of ways, because I get to inspire other people as well and use that as an advantage."
Kingery and the Eagles have started the season strong and look to improve on their play from last year. Fans can catch all of the team's home games this season at University Field or follow them on social media @MSUEaglesSB.
By John Kelley, Morehead State Athletic Media Relations