Softball seniors, from left to right, Piper McWhorter, Joselyn Soldal, Lainey Klokkenga, Alyxis Houston, Makenna Diekhoff, Miley Harper, and Jayley Fisher, displaying their gift from the team.
Panthers Softball Celebrate Senior Day
Honoring Players and Their Families
Excitement filled the air as the Delavan Panthers softball team hosted their Senior Day, an event dedicated to celebrating the achievements of senior athletes and acknowledging the unwavering support of their parents. Held on April 29th at the high school’s softball field, this tradition brought together teammates, families, and fans to reflect on the players' journeys.
The ceremony kicked off with a parade of the senior players stepping onto the field, their names announced to thunderous applause from the crowd. Each player was accompanied by their parents, who received a well-deserved ovation for their role in shaping not only the athletes but also the camaraderie within the team.
Among the honorees were:
Makenna Diekhoff, who plans to attend Olivet Nazarene University with a double major in Psychology and Family Ministries. Pictured below with her parents, Eric and Lindsay Diekhoff, and her sister, Jaylyn Diekhoff.
Jayley Fisher, who plans to attend Olivet Nazarene University and major in Child Development while continuing her volleyball career. Pictured below with her parents, Jason and Emily Fisher.
Miley Harper, who plans to attend college to pursue social work. Pictured below with her parents, Jason and Staci Harper.
Alyxis Houston, who plans to attend Ball State University to major in Aquatic Biology while continuing her speech career. Pictured below with her parents, Chad and Julie Houston.
Lainey Klokkenga, who plans to attend Parkland College to major in Marketing while continuing her softball career. Pictured below with her parents, Brandon and Leslie Klokkenga.
Piper McWhorter, who plans to attend Olivet Nazarene University to major in Secondary Math Education. Pictured below with her parents, Matthew and Heidi McWhorter.
Joselyn Soldal, who plans to attend Murray State University to major in Elementary Education. Pictured below with her parents, Doug Soldal and Michelle Bailey.
Each senior was presented with a display container of the signature red dirt of the softball field to commemorate that the class of 2025 will be the first class to have played their entire softball career on the new field.
The Delavan Panthers family extends its deepest gratitude to its seniors and their families. Wherever life takes them next, the team’s spirit and the town's pride will always be with them.
