Brie Walton Focuses on Softball After Surprising Proposal Over Holidays
Senior University of Tampa softball player and centerfielder Brie Walton participated in many sports as a young child. It wasn't until the age of 6 that Walton found her true passion, softball.
At the time, Walton did not know how much her first coach, Ed Sullivan, and the game of softball would impact her future. In addition to completing her degree, the game that she loves, a surprise wedding proposal and time for her dog are among the recent highlights for this UT student athlete.
The senior criminology major attributes her desire to work in law enforcement to coach Sullivan because he is a K-9 deputy for Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. When asked about her role model, Walton said, "As a kid I always wanted to be like coach Sullivan. Because of him, playing college softball and working in law enforcement has always been my dream."
Walton played many different positions but ultimately found her spot in center field during her time at Bartram Trail High School. She was a member of back-to-back state championship teams her junior and senior year. Walton's senior year was impressive because she was the team captain of three teams and made post season appearances for softball, basketball, and weightlifting.
After meeting head coach Leslie Kanter and visiting the University of Tampa campus, Walton knew it was the perfect fit. She committed during her senior year of high school, putting her one step closer to her goals.
Throughout her time at the University of Tampa, Brie Walton has made the SSC Commissioner's Honor Roll among other academic achievements. When asked what the most challenging part of being a student-athlete is, Walton responded, "time management is probably the hardest thing because there is not nearly enough hours in the day."
In between a busy class and practice schedule Walton still finds time to volunteer at Tampa Bay's Police Athletic League (PAL). This program provides after school care for many underprivileged local elementary school students.
"I love working with the kids and I think it's great they have someone positive to look up to," states Walton. The Police Athletic League provides help with homework and gives many of the kids an opportunity to participate in sports.
Along with dedicating time to work this the kids, Walton also interns for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. "Riding with deputies as they patrol and answer calls is always exciting. You never know what you will see," states Walton. Even after being up all night she's still ready to workout and practice the next day with the team.
When she isn't in the classroom, on the softball field, or volunteering, the recently engaged senior enjoys running with her dog Clementine along Bayshore Boulevard near the UT campus.
"Clementine is the sweetest 80 pound lap dog and everyone loves her," says Walton. Occasional trips to dog parks are always something to look forward to.
As graduation approaches, Walton says she is looking forward to wedding planning and beginning her career as a police officer. But until then she has her sights set on one thing, softball. "We have so much talent this year, and I'm ready to go all the way to nationals."
Walton knows the team's potential to win a national championship and hopes this will be the year.
Walton's surprise wedding proposal at the Rockefeller Center in New York City was also captured on video. Fans can view full footage by clicking here.
Written by Lindsay Dring