Ryleigh Perks, a talented shortstop for the Williamsburg Starz Gold Bunn 16U, competes in the prestigious Atlantic Coast Fastpitch League's Super division. Graduating in 2026, Ryleigh is committed to furthering her athletic career at Virginia Tech, where her skills will undoubtedly make an impact. Known for her exceptional athleticism and sharp instincts on the field, Ryleigh combines strong defensive range with a powerful offensive approach. Her versatility allows her to seamlessly transition between shortstop and third base, showcasing advanced reads and situational awareness that elevate her team’s performance. With a right-handed batting stance and a competitive mindset, she consistently demonstrates plate discipline and gap coverage that keeps opposing teams on their toes. Ryleigh’s accolades include the Throwing Champion award, which she earned in 2024 for achieving the highest overhand velocity during the Skills Challenge at the AFCS, and the 70 mph OH Velo Club recognition in 2025 for surpassing 70 mph in her throws. These achievements highlight her dedication to honing her skills in a competitive travel environment, setting the stage for a promising collegiate career. To learn more about her academic and athletic journey, visit her SportsRecruits profile. GET TO KNOW HER... MOST MEMORABLE SOFTBALL MOMENT? When my team lost our first game in Indiana last year in bracket play and right after that game we had to come back and win 3 back to back games to stay in tournament and advance to the next day. MY STORY I'd want the story of what it took to be able to throw normally again after tearing my rotator cuff and having tendinitis in my elbow. I pitched up until I was 13 and after my injury I never pitched the same so I decided to go a different route and just stick to middle infield. It took about 8 months of PT appointments to feel all the way better. Also when I was injured and couldn't throw underhand id underhand flip it to where it needed to go. WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE IN SOFTBALL? I want my legacy to be someone who was always coachable, a great teammate, and always wanted to get better and elevate my game! FUN FAMILY FACTS I have a twin sister named Kayleigh who is going to Gardner Webb for softball, My dad went to Radford for Baseball! WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THAT VIRGINIA TECH? Ive loved it ever since I was a little kid, I have a super good relationship with the coaches and I believe they can make me better! FAVORITE HOBBY/HOBBIES WHEN NOT PLAYING SOFTBALL? I love pickleball, working out, swimming, and hanging out with my friends! IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY NIL DEAL, WHAT COMPANY (OR COMPANIES) WOULD YOU WANT TO SPONSOR YOU? Bloom, Lululemon, Nike, Gatorade, Barstool Sports WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SOFTBALL PLAYER? Isa Torres-She is so smooth on defense and so consistent hitting wise! I try to model my game after her by trying to stay composed and confident on defense and at the plate ** Edited by VTChip at 7/18/2026, 4:27:34 PM