Varsity softball player Jaymie Hillman is a junior right fielder for the Union City High School team, and she is a member of the FFA chapter at school.
Hillman said she is new to FFA and enjoying the new opportunity.
“I am fairly new to FFA. I got involved in FFA after I enrolled in an Ag class spring of 2024,” Hillman said. “I enjoy being able to meet new people and learn how to handle social situations in a professional manner.”
Thanks to a little encouragement, Hillman decided she wanted to try FFA and now she is showing doe and wether goats.
“I took an Ag class so that I was in class with my friends. Shortly after that, I moved in with the Bollinger’s and they told me that I was going to be active in something. I either needed to play softball or show livestock but I wasn’t going to sit around at home. They had both shown livestock growing up and knew that it would teach me life skills as well as give me something bigger to work for. Well within a week we had bought my first doe. Then at the end of school this spring, I met coach Funk and I knew I had to go back to playing softball. This fall has been crazy busy but worth every minute,” Hillman said. “This is my first year to show livestock. I am excited to be showing both doe and wether goats.”
Finding something to do within the chapter was easy for Hillman. Now she is looking to expend her involvement in the program.
“I am primarily involved in showing livestock, however I am looking forward to being more involved in speech contests as well as livestock judging,” said Hillman.
In school, Hillman also participates in FCCLA. The junior said anyone interested in FFA should give it a try.
“Just go for it. If you don’t think that FFA is for you then try another student organization. No matter what, get involved,” said Hillman.
On the field, the junior said she loves competing and being around her teammates.
“I love how we are all supportive of each other, always cheering. each other on. The team is like a family, we are all always there for one another when needed, on and off the field,” said Hillman.
The right-fielder said she is working hard to become an infielder next season. Hillman said she has found inspiration in friends that helps drive her to succeed.
“Morgan Brothers will always inspire me to be a better athlete and friend. She is always quick to help other players and correct mistakes while still being kind,” Hillman said. “My foster mom, Hillary Bollinger, inspires me away from school. Even though she can make me mad sometimes, Hillary is always there for me. She makes sure I always keep my head up, even when she can see I’m putting myself down.”
As for life after high school, Hillman said she plans to attend college and work as a veterinarian.
“After high school I want to go to college and go through veterinary school. This has always been a dream because I have a soft spot for animals no matter the breed or type of animal. I also want to be successful in life and learn how to be dependent on myself,” said Hillman.
