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In Houston, Texas, Caelee Clark’s presence on base is a daunting prospect for softball opponents, to say the least.
“When I reach base, it’s like a weight off my shoulders,” Clark shared with. “I feel like I’ve done my part.”
For rival defenses, there’s little respite when Clark, hailing from Montgomery’s Lake Creek High School, gets on base. Now representing Texas Lutheran University, Clark has clinched the NCAA Division III stolen bases record for a single season. In the span of just 34 games in 2024, she’s swiped an astounding 84 bags. This places her fourth overall in NCAA history for steals in a single season, irrespective of division.
“I’ve tried not to dwell on it too much or let it affect my mindset,” Clark revealed in a Zoom interview. “I’ve received such incredible support from everyone.”
To put Clark’s remarkable feat into perspective, her 84 steals this season have been achieved with just 86 attempts. Furthermore, her tally surpasses the Division I record by four steals, a mark established “a while ago” in 1994. Clark attributes her record-setting speed to early family competitions.
“Growing up, my sisters, my dad, and I would often race each other in the backyard,” Clark reminisced. “I suppose I’ve always had this knack for speed.”
If Clark manages to notch another 12 steals in 2024, she’ll equal the NCAA single-season record across all levels. With her TLU squad heading to the postseason following their Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) triumph, Clark stands poised to etch even more history and continue tormenting opposing teams.
“It warms my heart to have such strong support behind me,” Clark expressed regarding her pursuit of LaTosha Stevens’ Division II record of 96 steals set in 1992. “No matter what happens, I know they’ll always be there to cheer me on and celebrate my achievements.”