Marty Gordon
NRVsports@mainstreetnewspapers.com
A Blacksburg High School senior softball player has announced plans to continue her playing career at Capital University in Ohio.
Riley Spence, a third baseman and outfielder, signed her letter of intent this past week in front of family, teammates and friends. Spence said she chose Capital for several reasons.
“When I started the process of looking at schools, attending camps, and going on campus tours, I realized that while I loved big cities, I also wanted a small-town feel,” she said. “I wanted to be a part of a community but still have the freedom of a big city. After visiting Capital University, I fell in love—it fit me perfectly.”
She currently plays for the Virginia Unity Richards travel out of Roanoke as the starting left outfielder and also plays first and third base for Blacksburg High School. Last season, she held the number four spot in the River Ridge District a .800 SLG, .571 OBP, and a .400 AVG.
“Softball has my heart; it is not just a sport for me, it is a lifestyle,” said Spence. “My routine includes 5 a.m. workouts every day before school, afternoon and weekend practices, strict nutrition, and a set sleep schedule. I know this isn’t the dream life for most people my age, but it is what I want to do – be the best athlete I can be. I will use this same drive to push me through college and get one step closer to becoming a veterinarian.”
Capital University is a private university in Bexley, Ohio with a current enrollment of 3,367 students. Capital participates in numerous intercollegiate sports as a member Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) at the NCAA Division III level. This past season, the Comets concluded the season with a record of 13-22 overall and 6-11 in the OAC.
Coach Anna Kirk will enter her third season at the helm of Capital Softball during the 2025-26 academic year.
