On March 18, junior Kelly Powell won the title of Christian Athlete of the Year at Lay Witnesses’ 24th annual award ceremony. The Christian Athlete of the Year is an important award given to one high school student, and this year Powell won out of 1900 nominees across Texas.

Coach Kelly Kirkland, along with Coach Mark Larriba—the winner of the Christian Coach of the Year award—nominated Powell.

“From day one, she stepped into the program, and you could tell she had spirit,” Larriba said. “Kelly takes her faith very seriously, and she isn’t afraid to make a stand for what she believes in. Last year, during a tough time in the playoffs, she always led us in prayer.”

Powell’s coaches and family, especially her sisters, inspire her to become a better person.

“I can’t really say why I deserve it. All I know is that I live my life for God, and He has blessed me with a lot of things, such as my ability to play softball,” Powell said.

Several months ago, Powell learned of her nomination. She wrote three letters to Mr. Sam Mings, the founder of Lay Witnesses, and received the three recommendation letters needed for her eligibility. Lay Witnesses for Christ International, the organization that awarded Powell her title, combines religion and sports to allow athletes to better their faith and their talents.

“I don’t feel very different after getting this award because I don’t think it should change you. However, I do feel really blessed,” Powell said. “I didn’t know I was going to win, so I was surprised and shocked. It is an amazing honor, and I’m very humbled by it.”

Powell won three medals, a trophy, and a certificate with her title. At the award ceremony, she was invited onto the stage with the other finalists before they announced that she had won.

“I don’t think there are specific traits that a Christian Athlete of the Year needs. I just think it’s important that the person knows God, lives his or her life for Him and only Him, and realizes all that He has done for us,” Powell said.

The softball team is a tight-knit group of girls, and they all respect and look up to each other. They put great importance on their relationships with one another.

“Kelly is one of the best girls I’ve ever known in my life, and she’s really sweet and focused on her religion,” senior Taylor Nabors said. “I think she absolutely deserves this award, and I would nominate her if I had the chance.”

The softball team greatly values communication between players and staying energetic during games. They pick each other up when they’re down and always try to keep positive.

“Coach Larriba is really big on creating a family atmosphere for the team. His dedication is his strongest point,” Nabors said. “Everyone in softball is a Christian, so he isn’t afraid to bring his faith into the team.”