Softball | 3/6/2025 10:00:00 AM

Goodwell,OK-For Oklahoma Panhandle State University senior Kaylynn Du Preez, the journey to Goodwell, Oklahoma, was anything but ordinary. Hailing from South Africa, Du Preez's path to OPSU was filled with determination, adaptation, and a love for softball, leading her to call OPSU her home away from home.
 
Growing up in South Africa, Du Preez developed a passion for softball early on. That passion ultimately led her to the United States when her club team participated in tournaments nationwide. The experience sparked her dream of playing collegiate softball in America while earning a degree. "After the two-week trip, I knew I wanted to come back, learn a whole new level of softball, further my education, and immerse myself in American culture," Du Preez shared. Navigating the complexities of college recruitment as an international student, she enlisted the help of an agency to find the right fit. Her journey began at Otero Junior College in La Junta, Colorado, where she spent two years earning her associate's degree and building lifelong friendships. When the time came to continue her academic and athletic career, OPSU stood out as the perfect choice. "I chose OPSU because of its proximity to Colorado, its affordability, and the softball program. I also liked the small class sizes and the supportive community atmosphere. OPSU became my new home, far away from home."
 
Du Preez is majoring in Business Administration and Management, a field she is eager to continue pursuing after graduation. "After graduation, I plan to move to Colorado and enjoy the summer with my parents, who will be visiting from South Africa," she said. "After that, I'll start my master's in Human Resources at the University of Colorado Springs."
 
Leaving home and adjusting to life in the U.S. presented its challenges. "The hardest part was moving here alone, adjusting to the culture and language, and not knowing anyone," Du Preez reflected. "These past few years have been tough, but they've also been a blessing. This journey has allowed me to grow, see the world differently, and make unforgettable memories."
 
Though she isn't involved in clubs, Du Preez stays busy with softball and enjoys her favorite activities, including weightlifting, being outdoors, visiting zoos, and going on safari drives. Looking ahead to the semester, one thing stands out—an experience uniquely American that has captured her interest since she arrived in the U.S. "I'm looking forward to the rodeo at the end of the semester. I had never seen a rodeo before coming here, so I always look forward to it."
 
From a young girl in South Africa with a dream to a collegiate student-athlete at OPSU, Kaylynn Du Preez's journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the pursuit of new opportunities. As she prepares for graduation and the next chapter of her life, she carries the lessons and experiences that have shaped her. OPSU is proud to have been a part of her story and looks forward to seeing what she will accomplish in the future.