By Hayden Swope

Marion will return its first team all-league catcher for the 2023 softball season in senior Carley Wilhelm.

In preparation for the school ball season, Wilhelm traveled with a club team, and spent some time in the gym. 

“To prepare for the season I continue my passion on the field with my traveling team, Heat,” Wilhelm said. “We practice twice a week to prepare for our season. During the school year I do weight lifting with a couple of my teammates to condition.” 

With many goals for the upcoming season, Wilhelm’s biggest goal she wishes to achieve is to be the leader the young players need. 

“My goals that I am focused on this season are to help the younger players improve in areas they need to improve in,” Wilhelm said. “My postseason finishes are to the best we can, with not very many players out this season. This season I am hoping to get a lot of improvement on being a catcher and my hitting.”

Wilhelm plans to continue her academic career at a higher level at Flint Hills Technical College after high school. 

“My future plans are to go to Flint Hills Technical College to begin the Licensed Practical Nurse program,” Wilhelm said.