Tough choice for Canyon Del Oro senior: Graduation or softball championship? | News

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (KVOA) – Canyon Del Oro senior Maddie Priest faced a challenging decision: attend her high school graduation or play in the state championship softball game.

“It was a very tough decision, but I chose graduation,” said Priest.

Priest, who has played softball since age six, had to decide between these two significant life events.

“These are both huge events in a person’s life and each is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Priest.

Priest has been an essential player for Canyon Del Oro, holding key positions at second base and in the outfield. Despite the importance of the championship game, she chose to walk across the graduation stage with her classmates.

Her father, Bobby Priest, expressed his concerns about the situation.

“It’s a choice no student-athlete should have to make. They should be able to experience both with their friends and teammates,” said Priest.

Bobby Priest hopes schools and athletic associations will reconsider scheduling conflicts to prevent similar situations in the future.

“There should never be a championship game scheduled on the same day as a school’s graduation. That’s just my opinion, but I think many people would agree,” said Priest.

Maddie plans to attend Pima Community College in the fall to pursue a degree in nursing.