Kate Mitchel Compton, a senior at Plant, is a standout in the Class of 2026. She is committed to James Madison University for softball as a center fielder. Although she is starting in the spring season, she is also involved in the fall by playing for the girls varsity volleyball team. Compton played as an outside hitter and helped lead the Panthers to a state runner-up finish.
“It was definitely hard to balance the two,” Compton says. “I think just staying busy and constantly doing something is where I thrive and I think staying on top of scheduling in advance also really helped me manage the two.” Balancing two sports is very hard, but Compton did it through time management and staying busy.
James Madison University has a very strong softball program. In 2021, they made an appearance in the Women’s College World Series. As of April 2026, they are performing well with a 20-20 record and a four-game winning streak.
When asked about why she chose James Madison, “The coaches,” Compton says. “On Sept. 1, when recruiting opened, JMU called me and JMU immediately stood out to me. The coaches are the sweetest people ever. James Madison’s business program is also really good, which was something I was looking for.” This shows the potential that JMU has in store for Compton.
This year, Compton has received recognition for her accomplishments, one being named “Most Athletic” at Plant. Being a dual-sport athlete and showing out in both shows how rare she is.
“Pretty cool,” Compton says.
Softball has always been a big part of Compton’s life. “For a long time, I’ve played competitively at a really high level my whole life,” Compton says. “Playing at the next level has always been a goal of mine.” Compton is a gritty player and shows hard work in every practice and game. She is a one-of-a-kind player because she puts her all into everything.
“I started playing when I was seven,” Compton says.
Going to college for a sport can be scary and exciting. “I’m excited to join JMU’s program and to contribute the best I can,” Compton says. “The only thing I’m a little nervous about is the cold weather and not going to school with people I know.”
Overall, Compton is an accomplished athlete, but she is more than just an athlete. Kinley Quinn, a freshman at Plant, says “I look up to Kate Mitchel so much and I’m so grateful that I was able to play with her on the softball team. She is the sweetest person ever and coming onto varsity was scary, but Kate Mitchel and the other upperclassmen welcomed me with open arms.” Compton is a standout player and person. Kate Mitchel Compton is a name you don’t want to forget.