Cornerstone Athlete: Dani Holt

MONTGOMERY,Ala.- Since entering Huntingdon in the fall of 2020, Dani Holt has been a staple of consistency within the softball program and the campus community as a whole. Being the first in her family to attend a 4-year institution in addition to being the first collegiate athlete from her family, every experience for her as a Hawk thus far has been nothing short of impressive.

The Saraland, Alabama native has played softball since she was three years old and has loved the game ever since. As she grew older, the sport became second nature to her until her freshman season playing for the Saraland Spartans.

"I tore my ACL completely in half as a freshman and it felt like the lifelong momentum I had found in softball grinded to a halt", Holt shared. "I had to relearn how to walk, run, and be an athlete again"."It was the greatest difficulty I had experienced to this point in my life. I was blessed to have such an overwhelming support system behind me with the program, especially from my head coach Donna Sunnycalb. She and the rest of the girls got me back on my feet and supported me throughout."

Dani would return to the field as a sophomore, but did not really find her stride until her senior year, where the season was cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the face of the adversity however, she remains thankful, even to this day. "The lessons I learned throughout the challenges in my high school career prepared me for the next level", said Holt. "I would not change a thing."

Once she arrived at Huntingdon, she wasted no time finding her home on campus. Becoming involved in Phi Mu Fraternity, the Pre-Law club, Circle K, and countless other organizations, Dani cemented herself as a leader both on the field and in the classroom, maintaining a 3.69 GPA throughout her undergraduate studies.

Holt on her time at Huntingdon:

"In my time at Huntingdon, I find it a privilege to be able to be a student athlete. My experience on the field is a time of serenity where I can better myself mentally and physically for my team, while creating irreplaceable relationships with the amazing girls I'm surrounded by. Being a college athlete has taught me that you have to work hard for everything you want in life— it isn't just going to be handed to you. Off the field, I've found a home away from home in Phi Mu where I'm also surrounded by a steadfast support system. Everywhere you turn there is someone looking out for your best interests, which has made my time on and off the field at Huntingdon something I will look back very fondly on in years to come". 

As a Designated Hitter for Huntingdon, Holt holds a .397 batting average in 78 at bats for her career, providing steady offense for the Hawks.

"Dani has been a great asset to our program her entire four year career here at Huntingdon" head softball coach Casey Chrietzberg shared. "It is harder and harder to have players for their entire 4 years which is a true testament to Dani's character and commitment.  It has been so great seeing her grow on and off the field during her time here.  I am extremely proud of Dani and everything she has given to this program".

You can catch Dani in action for her senior season beginning on February 9th with a double header at home against Rhodes. The first pitch is scheduled for 10:30 AM CT with the second game beginning at 12:30.