Hurricane's Walker signs to pitch for IU Southeast, will study pre-medicine

HURRICANE, W.Va. -- Mileah Walker, a two-time honorable mention all-state softball pitcher for Hurricane High School, signed to play for Indiana University Southeast, a NAIA school in New Albany, Ind.

Walker is planning to study pre-med and said she chose IU Southeast because of its status as one of the top medical schools in the nation.

She had some advice for other young athletes.

"Keep working hard," she said. "It takes dedication, time. Once you finish, in the end, it's worth it. Push to your highest ability and keep good grades."

Her parents are Crissy and Terrence Walker. Hurricane coach Bill Dimsdale was also at the signing ceremony in the HHS library.

"She's put a lot of hard work into this," Terrence Walker said. "She's come a long way in a short period of time."

Walker has been the No. 1 pitcher for the Redkins since she was a sophomore.

Dimsdale praised her attitude and competitiveness.

South Charleston pitching coach Mike Rankin helped Walker develop her skills. She also put in significant time at the All Bases Covered academy.

"She's all heart about the game. I'm glad somebody recognized her," Rankin said.