By Derrick Smith

A majority of high school student-athletes begin playing sports when they are young not to pick a specific sports but to get introduced to athletics as a whole. And while not all choose to follow this path, it does not mean they will not be successful. 

Nicole Watkins of Chisholm first began playing athletics when she was a freshman in high school. While this may have put her behind some others, her work ethic has been vital in becoming a better athlete.

“I entered sports later than most,” she said. “Therefore, practice and dedication to the sport that my coaches are teaching me have helped the most in my success.”

A senior at Chisholm High School, Watkins is an outfielder on the Lady Longhorns softball team and also competes in the sprints and high jump for the track team.

Nicole says that throughout her life, she has been influenced by a variety of people that have helped shape who she is as an athlete, student, and person.

“My parents have been the biggest role models for me,” she said. “They have taught me to have a strong work ethic and how to be strong and independent, and what it looks like to become successful. In the classroom, Mr. Hula and Mr. Snider have ultimately prepared me for college by making me a diligent and effective student.”

She has made some great memories during her athletic career, but for Watkins, there is one memory that stands out as her favorite. 

“The highlight moment for me took place last season,” she said. “The travel softball team that I am a part of, Enid Select 16U, won the National Championship in Branson, Missouri. It was a great experience and fun to enjoy with my teammates.

Outside of athletics, Watkins is involved in a variety of groups around campus including the student council, National Honor Society, Chisholm Community Outreach Team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Farmers of America as well as the academic and scholastics teams.