TAFT, CA – On March 25, 2025, the Bakersfield Jockey Club congratulated the next set of recipients hosted by Hodel's Restaurant in Bakersfield, CA.

Presenting the awards for elite student-athletes in Kern County was Bakersfield Police Chief, Greg Terry. Two of those elites were Taft College Softball student-athletes Katelyn Moore and Laieikawai Keahi. Moore and Laieikawai were two of 17 individuals awarded.

Taft College Head Softball Coach Amanda Clark along with all other athletic coaches and administrators, were present on behalf of their respective institution and students to speak on why they were deserving of their distinguished characteristics.

Coach Clark commented on her student-athletes, "Kate is an outstanding athlete who competes at a high level in both soccer and softball. She is an athlete every coach wants on her team. She is respectful, coachable and works very hard. She is currently hitting .427 and leads the team in stolen bases with 26. She is quiet but leads by example and is a joy to have on the team."

Clark continued, "Laie is a sophomore here at Taft who has been successful both seasons with the Cougars. Last year, she was First Team All-Conference and is well on her way to doing the same this year. She is currently leading the team in batting average at .462 and has caught every game for the Cougars. She brings a calmness to the team and is very knowledgeable of the game. As a captain of the team, she holds her teammates accountable and demonstrates what it looks like to give 110% of every play. She is an integral part of the team and is also respectful and a genuine young woman. We are excited to see what the future has in store for her."

The Jockey Club is a non-profit organization who has been empowering local scholar athletes since 1964. For more information, you can visit their website at www.bakersfieldjockeyclub.com.