Sounds like none of those folks would have been surprised! A sample from the Fayetteville Observer: At her signing ceremony, after a 7½-minute video — which chronicled Aldridge’s softball track from her youth and travel teams to her time with the Bears — several of the people in Aldridge’s life offered their congratulations. Kelly Melvin, the volleyball coach at Cape Fear High School and Aldridge’s travel volleyball coach, said Aldridge’s “emotions, brain and IQ, and heart” separate her from other athletes. Melvin went on to describe Aldridge’s sportsmanship and her ability to connect with every player — no matter their skill level — that steps on the same field or court. “Her heart is golden,” Melvin said as she fought back tears. “When I talk about her, even as a coach from another school, I can’t put anyone above her. … People are saying these things because it’s who you are.” Jalesty Washington, Gray’s Creek’s volleyball coach, said her daughter admires Aldridge. “I would always want her to be like Kylie,” Washington added. Troy Lindsey, Gray’s Creek’s athletics director and a Virginia Tech graduate, said “the Hokies have gotten themselves a diamond.” Sometimes there are just people that are shining stars,” he continued. “Kylie is one of them.” The reigning Greater Fayetteville Sports Female Athlete of the Year, Aldridge led the Bears to a regular-season title and the program’s first-ever trip to the Final Four in her junior season. The catcher led Cumberland County with a staggering .700 batting average. Gray’s Creek softball coach Stuart Gilmer described Aldridge as “consistent, dependable” and capable of performing in the toughest of situations. He also praised Aldridge for her ability to keep attention on the team and her teammates rather than herself. “It just shows what type of character Kylie has. She has great character and always wants to make sure the team’s successful before she’s successful,” Gilmer said. “In turn, that helps her be successful. When you put your teammates first and your team first, your achievements and accolades will follow.” He has no doubts Aldridge will be able to maintain that high level of play and high level of character at the next level. “Whatever Kylie does, she’s gonna be good at it,” Gilmer added. “She’s gonna put in the work to make sure she’s the best at what she does. Her softball career at Virginia Tech, I can’t wait to hear big things about her. Later in life, she’s gonna do big things.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Looks like all those coaches nailed!!!!!!