Local standouts Kayla Leland, Vanessa Shippy among nine finalists for NCAA Woman of the Year

Two area athletes are among nine finalists for the NCAA Woman of the Year award.

Former Whitworth University and Gonzaga Prep standout runner Kayla Leland and former Oklahoma State University and Lake City softball star Vanessa Shippy were named to the final nine Monday. The winner will be announced at an awards dinner Oct. 28 in Indianapolis.

Leland, who is attending graduate school at Washington State, was a seven-time NCAA Division III All-American in cross country as well indoor and outdoor track and field.

“I am beyond blessed and forever grateful that the NCAA has chosen me as one of the nine finalists,” said Leland, who graduated Whitworth summa cum laude. “It means so much to be able to share this with my family, coaches, professors and teammates who have made it all possible and who have made so many sacrifices along the way. I could not have imagined a better way to close out my collegiate years than with this great honor.”

Shippy, who graduated last spring with degrees in finance and marketing, was twice named the Big 12 Softball Player of the Year. She is currently an assistant coach at Syracuse University.

The NCAA Woman of the Year honors academic achievement, athletic excellence, community service and leadership.