North Butler alumna Kiya Johnson concluded a memorable final season with Kirkwood Community College softball last season. Kirkwood went 50-18 overall, 21-7 in the ICCAC, and advanced to the NJCAA Division II Softball World Series for a third straight season. Johnson on her final season with the Eagles.
“My mindset going into my sophomore year was a little different from my freshman year. I had to take on a little bit more of a leadership role and really find that part of myself. I think it went pretty well and I had an amazing time my last year with Kirkwood and really enjoyed it. I think that’s the most important thing too,” says Johnson. “It’s an experience that we’ll all get to remember for the rest of our lives. Being able to make it to nationals my freshman and then my sophomore year was super amazing. I’m very grateful for that.”
Johnson, this season, was recognized as a NJCAA Division II Midwest First Team honoree. Johnson, in a utility role, hit a sizzling .425 avg with 100 RBIs. She returned to the circle after not pitching in first season, with a 3.76 ERA and 30 strikeouts in 17 appearances.
Johnson says she’ll continue her education and softball career at the University of South Dakota starting this fall.
“Obviously schooling wise, they had the program that I wanted, so that worked out good. When I went on my visit, the town felt very home-like and I really liked the size of it. The program that they have, the coaches are super amazing and nice. I really think it’ll be a good fit for me.”
As a Coyote, she plans to major in Biology to pursue a career in the medical field. Johnson on a skillset she’s developing and role at South Dakota.
“I grew a lot mentally. Thinking about more of mental side of the game, that’s something that I definitely want to continue to grow on and get better at. Being locked in every single time and finding the right mindset to help myself succeed even more than, what I did these past two years. I’m looking to maybe play some middle infield here at the University of South Dakota and if I’m needed pitching wise. You never really know what can happen with the season. We’ll kind of see where that leads me.”
South Dakota went 32-24 last season, falling in the Summit League tournament championship game.
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