RILEY DOTSON-TAHLEQUAH
As she moves into her final spring as a Tahlequah Tiger, senior Riley Dotson looks forward to capping what’s been a stellar athletic career that includes four trips to the state fast pitch tournament. She’ll run track once again in the 400-meter dash as well as the 4X100, 4X200 and 4X400 relays and for the first time ever will play slow pitch softball which certainly puts a smile on coach Chris Ray’s face.
“She’s a four-year starter for us in fast pitch with a high softball IQ with a lot of speed. She’s a silent leader that lets her work ethic set an example for our younger players. Her addition will be a big boost for us this spring in slow pitch.”
So Riley, what prompted you to decide to play slow pitch this year?
“I just felt it was another opportunity to make it to a state tournament and have one last chance to play with the girls before I go off to college,” said Riley. “So, my goals for the spring are to be able to make it to the state tournament in slow pitch and to go back to state again in track. We’ve made the podium in track events since my freshman year so I’m hoping to improve in all of my events this year and break some school records.”
In addition to her athletics, Dotson is in the National Honor Society, FCA and the S-club which is a soroptimist club for girls. She’s had a busy athletic career but there are a couple of events that stick in her mind as highlights.
“I think making it past the first round at state last fall was a big one for me and individually a game against Durant last year where I had a good game pitching and I hit for the cycle for the first time.”
Riley takes her role as a senior leader this year seriously.
“I want to be a team player first and not put myself above everyone else. I want to set an example and show people how to do things and be their friend whenever they have questions or need a ride and just be a good friend on and off the field.”
Riley will continue her softball career next year at Carl Albert where she plans to study physical therapy and says in her spare time she likes to play pickle ball, bake, hang out with friends and shop.
