Every athlete dreams about the day they announce their college commitment.

But what many people don’t see are the months of uncertainty that happen before that moment.

For Kayleigh Ventura, that uncertainty was one of the biggest lessons of her recruiting journey.

When September 1 arrived, she watched other athletes celebrate phone calls, conversations, and scholarship opportunities while her own phone stayed quiet.

The few conversations she did have didn’t always lead anywhere. Some schools simply stopped responding altogether.

Being ghosted by college coaches is something many recruits experience but few people openly talk about. It can make even the hardest-working athletes question whether they’re good enough.

Instead of letting those moments define her, Kayleigh kept doing what she could control.

She continued showing up.

She kept training.

She trusted that her opportunity would come.

Eventually, it did.

The University of Rhode Island saw not only the athlete she had become but also the person behind the uniform.

Looking back now, Kayleigh says she’s actually grateful her journey didn’t happen overnight.

Waiting made the commitment even more meaningful.

It reminded her that recruiting isn’t a race.

Every athlete’s timeline is different.

Sometimes the seasons filled with uncertainty are the ones preparing you for exactly where you’re meant to be.

The People Behind the Dream

Kayleigh credits her parents and coaches for helping make this milestone possible.

From traveling to camps to reaching out to college coaches, they continued believing in her even during the moments that felt discouraging.

She says one person stood out above everyone else—her dad.

“He was always willing to take me to any camp and supported all of my dreams. He never told me they were too big or too small.”

Advice for the Next Generation

One lesson Kayleigh hopes younger athletes remember is that recruiting isn’t something to rush.

“Don’t commit too early. There are so many schools out there looking through hundreds of athletes. You may be last on their list—but you’re still on their list.”

It’s a reminder that patience doesn’t mean you’re being overlooked.

Sometimes it simply means your opportunity hasn’t arrived yet.

Looking Ahead

As Kayleigh prepares for her next chapter at the University of Rhode Island, she’s most excited about experiencing college softball and competing against some of the best athletes in the country.

If she could give one piece of advice to her 10-year-old self, it would be simple:

“Enjoy every moment of it.”

Because one day, the practices, tournaments, road trips, and long recruiting process become the story you’ll always be grateful to tell.

— VAULTED Commitment Corner